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FunTimes Magazine | Celebrating Africa And Its Diaspora
Celebrating Africa And Its Diaspora
2024-03-28T13:21:25-04:00
urn:uuid:8cceab6b-8ef6-4bcf-946c-8fc30fc8ab19
2024-03-28T11:37:44-04:00
2024-03-28T13:21:25-04:00
7 Black-owned Hotels & Lodges in Africa to Stay In for Your Next Trip
2024-03-28 12:00:00 -0400
Boitumelo Masihleho
<span><p><br></p><p>Many Africans, the African diaspora, and international tourists are traveling Africa today. Over the last decade, a boom in global travel among Black Americans has brought with it a growing interest in trips to Africa. Black travel to Africa has gained momentum in recent years, but safari travelers remain mostly white. As the travel industry continues to evolve, there is a noticeable surge in the number of Black-owned and African-owned hotels across the continent. Staying at Black-owned hotels allows tourists to contribute directly to the local economies and communities they visit. From boutique hotels in bustling cities to eco-lodges nestled in the heart of nature, Black-owned hotels in Africa offer a wide range of options to suit every traveler’s taste and budget.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><h2><a href="https://www.mbanomanorhotel.com/">Mbano Manor Hotel Victoria Falls By Mantis</a></h2><br><p>Dr. Matifadza Martha Nyazema is the founder and owner of the lovely Mbano Manor Hotel Victoria Falls. Born on the family private farm in Msengezi, Dr. Nyazema credits a lineage of hardworking grandparents for her enterprising spirit. A long tourism career covered senior positions in destination marketing, airline, hotel, and convention center management, based in several African countries. Dr. Nyazema has traveled extensively, visited over 60 countries, and garnered an appreciation of world-class hospitality in leading tourism destinations.</p><p>Mbano Manor Hotel by Mantis is conveniently located within minutes of Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Mbano Manor Hotel by Mantis boasts 18 luxurious standard suites and a private villa, scattered in seclusion across the natural beauty of the surrounding forest estate, punctuated by daily sightings of wildlife. Victoria Falls is a bucket-list paradise, offering an abundance of leisure pursuits and adventure tourism activities, with options including sightseeing at the iconic Victoria Falls, river safaris, helicopter excursions, game drives in nearby parks, white water rafting, and bungee jumping.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105861/fill/700x0/image3.jpg?timestamp=1711638341"></div><h2> </h2>Read also:<br></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/12/22/476209/7-black-owned-travel-goodies-to-grab-for-your-next-trip" target="_blank"><img alt="7 Black-Owned Travel Goodies to Grab for Your Next Trip " src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1084077/fit/80x80/image4.png?timestamp=1711639077" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/12/22/476209/7-black-owned-travel-goodies-to-grab-for-your-next-trip" target="_blank">7 Black-Owned Travel Goodies to Grab for Your Next Trip </a></h4>
<p>For your gifting needs this holiday season, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite chic and useful travel products made by Black-owned businesses. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/12/22/476209/7-black-owned-travel-goodies-to-grab-for-your-next-trip">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><span><br><h2><a href="https://linktr.ee/dazehouse?fbclid=IwAR3_Mh7PeZEw2OVRtEr1dD3q5BQ7iNyTtDQ14GD_tOkquz4UISo4efPx50k">Daze House</a></h2><br></span><span><p>Daze House is one of Johannesburg, South Africa’s most impressive boutique hotels, with hilltop views. The founder of Daze House, Gabe Leavall, was intentional with the design. Located in Observatory Johannesburg, Daze House not only exists as a space for travelers to rest and relax while exploring Johannesburg, but it also is an events space, a local shop showcasing luxury African artisan products, and home to Kin Watu, an independent art project. Guests can explore Johannesburg and Africa by booking one of the 10 African-themed rooms. Some African countries that make a luxurious cameo in the boutique hotel include the Namibia room, Lesotho room, Ethiopia room, and the Kenya standard cottage room, to name a few.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105863/fill/700x0/image5.jpg?timestamp=1711638388"></div><p><br></p><p><br></p><h2> <a href="https://africanbushcamps.com/">African Bush Camps</a></h2><br></span><span><p>Founded by professional guide <a href="https://www.instagram.com/beksndlovu/">Beks Ndlovu</a>, African Bush Camps has 15 luxury tented camps and lodges in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. Booking a stay at any of these camps or lodges means having an incredible safari experience in some of Africa’s most untouched areas. Ndlovu envisioned allowing travelers to explore the wonders of an African safari, rooted in the intimate heartlands of Africa, in harmony with its surroundings, and in touch with nature. African Bush Camps promotes and influences travel to Africa on a global scale while operating with a strong focus on conservation, and an environmentally sustainable footprint that celebrates the culture of communities in the areas in which it operates.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105865/fill/700x0/image4.jpg?timestamp=1711638425"></div><p> </p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/10/29/470243/top-8-ecotourism-destinations-in-africa-in-2023" target="_blank"><img alt="Top 8 Ecotourism Destinations in Africa in 2023" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1070929/fit/80x80/image5.png?timestamp=1711639097" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/10/29/470243/top-8-ecotourism-destinations-in-africa-in-2023" target="_blank">Top 8 Ecotourism Destinations in Africa in 2023</a></h4>
<p>Ecotourism offers travelers the opportunity to connect with nature, immerse in local cultures, and learn about conservation efforts. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/10/29/470243/top-8-ecotourism-destinations-in-africa-in-2023">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><p><br></p></span><div><span><h2><a href="https://angelsview.co.za/">Angels View</a></h2><br><p>Dr Reuel Khoza and his wife Mumsy Khoza (nee Thaledi), a well-known family from Acornhoek felt driven to create a legacy on this incredible space that straddles the escarpment. True warriors of tourism the family has a rich industry history that spans three decades. Inspired by Shangaan styles, renowned Donald Nxumalo Interior Design has embraced traditional motives right through the hotel. Located on the breath-taking God’s Window escarpment, this breath-taking destination accommodation establishment offers an array of accommodation options</p><p>The hotel facilities include the Grande Pool Deck, viewing decks, spa, gymnasium, library, and plenty of lounge space to relax and soak up the unique setting. Guests will especially enjoy the funky glass bar area, Café Ahe. Angels View boasts a myriad of accommodation options, from the contemporary-styled superior and luxury panorama rooms to the 10 Earth Grotto suites, the four-bedroom Khoza House, and two one-bedroom suites complete with mini kitchens and private balconies.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105867/fill/700x0/image7.jpg?timestamp=1711638474"></div><p> </p><p><br></p><h2><a href="https://www.amluxury.co.za/">AM Lodge</a></h2><p><br></p><p></p><p>AM Lodge, a conservancy, home to a range of animals including buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and several antelope species, is flanked by Big Five private game reserves that form part of the Greater Kruger National Park, an area that covers approximately 20 million hectares dedicated to the conservation of wildlife. It is an exclusive, award-winning, five-star lodge that is situated in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, South Africa. This luxury lodge hosts a maximum of 22 guests in the utmost luxury and style. Six suites offer complete seclusion as well as private and stunning views. Two completely secluded suites with private plunge pools provide an even more exclusive luxury African safari experience. Auswell Mashaba built AM Lodge but his children — Nsovo and Njombo — were made directors of the company.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105869/fill/700x0/image6.jpg?timestamp=1711638598"></div><p> </p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/09/02/450339/luxury-retreats-indulging-in-exquisite-accommodations-across-africa" target="_blank"><img alt="Luxury Retreats Indulging in Exquisite Accommodations Across Africa" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1035625/fit/80x80/pexels-hendrik-cornelissen-2862070.jpg?timestamp=1711639111" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/09/02/450339/luxury-retreats-indulging-in-exquisite-accommodations-across-africa" target="_blank">Luxury Retreats: Indulging in Exquisite Accommodations Across Africa</a></h4>
<p>Africa is a continent with an incredible range of beauty and diversity, attracting travelers seeking adventure, wildlife, and culture. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/09/02/450339/luxury-retreats-indulging-in-exquisite-accommodations-across-africa">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><h2><a href="https://arijiju.com/">Arijuju House</a> </h2><p><br></p><p>Arijuju House is a stunning accommodation, located on a gaming site in Kenya. It was created by a family (who prefers to remain anonymous) raised in West Africa and Norway with a passion for conservation and wilderness experiences. The idea was to create a home that worked hand in hand with nature – reminding the half-Nigerian, half-English owner of his childhood spent in central Nigeria, where all he ever wanted to be growing up was a game ranger – while helping to protect the African bush. </p><p></p><p>Dedicated to conservation, Arijiju has been sustainably built and its tourism model funds local conservation projects. The house takes its name from the Maasai word for the hill on which it was built stands on the Borana Conservancy. The owner of Arijiju used to own a record label in Nigeria. With his appreciation for the nature of acoustics, he built Arijiju low down in the cross of two valleys. Carved into the bedrock, Arijiju blends so discreetly into the landscape that it’s hard to spot, even from the air. Determined to make the house as unobtrusive as possible, the exact position of the house, anchored by views of Mount Kenya, was chosen so that each of the bedrooms gets an elaborate, equatorial light show at sunrise.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105870/fill/700x0/image2.jpg?timestamp=1711638658"></div><p> </p><p><br></p><h2><a href="https://www.jnanetamsna.com/">Jnane Tamsna</a><br></h2><br></span><span><p>Jnane Tamsna blends Meryanne Loum-Martin’s splendid interior design and Gary Martin’s serene nine-acre garden. Integrating 5 houses, 5 pools, and a tennis court, this unique boutique hotel offers 24 individual rooms, private villa rentals, and full exclusivity for events. Moorish arches painted in warm butterscotch frame views of bright blue skies and a verdant garden, where winding paths lead to five secluded villas housing deeply comfortable rooms styled easily. A highlight is the Diversity Excursions, which are led by university graduates keen to take tourists off the beaten track and show them something of Moroccan customs, cuisine, and art.</p><p>Loum-Martin was born in Cote d’Ivoire to a Senegalese diplomat father and a West Indian lawyer mother. She spent her early childhood in Cote D’Ivoire, Ghana, London, and Moscow before settling in Paris), and she believes Morocco historically embodies the crossroad of influences.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105871/fill/700x0/image1.jpg?timestamp=1711638708"></div><p><br></p><p>Read also:</p></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/01/31/479847/8-black-female-travel-influencers-to-follow-for-your-first-trip-in-2024" target="_blank"><img alt="8 Black Female Travel Influencers to Follow for Your First Trip in 2024" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1092189/fit/80x80/image5.jpg?timestamp=1711639135" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/01/31/479847/8-black-female-travel-influencers-to-follow-for-your-first-trip-in-2024" target="_blank">8 Black Female Travel Influencers to Follow for Your First Trip in 2024</a></h4>
<p>The inspiration for your next trip is just a scroll away. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/01/31/479847/8-black-female-travel-influencers-to-follow-for-your-first-trip-in-2024">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span><p> </p><p><br></p><p><b>Source</b></p><ul><li><p><a href="https://travelnoire.com/7-lack-owned-hotels-in-africa">Travel Noire</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.timeslive.co.za/sunday-times/lifestyle/travel/2021-05-23-meet-mati-nyazema-the-woman-who-wouldnt-quit/">TimesLive</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/on-instagram-sleep-in-africa-celebrates-black-owned-hotels">AFAR Media</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://brownpages.africa/travel-africa-a-growing-list-of-african-black-owned-hotels-to-visit/">Brown Pages</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.sarajabril.com/">Sara Jabril</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.blackbusiness.com/2018/04/top-10-most-beautiful-black-owned-hotels-resorts-around-world.html">Black Business</a></p></li></ul><div><br><br><br></div></span></div><span><p><br></p><div><br><br><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1711639303"></div> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. <br></div><p></p><p>She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><span><br><br><br></span></p><p>Read more from Boitumelo Masihleho:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/08/26/448914/childrens-books-that-encourage-your-kids-to-see-the-world" target="_blank"><img alt="Childrens Books That Encourage Your Kids To See The World" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1032790/fit/80x80/image6.png?timestamp=1711639331" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/08/26/448914/childrens-books-that-encourage-your-kids-to-see-the-world" target="_blank">Children's Books That Encourage Your Kids To See The World</a></h4>
<p>Books with a travel theme are a great way to open your children’s minds to new adventures and excitement about the world around us. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/08/26/448914/childrens-books-that-encourage-your-kids-to-see-the-world">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p><br></p></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/08/10/443396/8-black-owned-art-galleries-and-museums-you-should-know" target="_blank"><img alt="8 Black-Owned Art Galleries and Museums You Should Know" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1019275/fit/80x80/image6.png?timestamp=1711640410" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/08/10/443396/8-black-owned-art-galleries-and-museums-you-should-know" target="_blank">8 Black-Owned Art Galleries and Museums You Should Know</a></h4>
<p>Black-owned art galleries and museums provoke emotion, translate our joy and pain, and highlight our originality. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/08/10/443396/8-black-owned-art-galleries-and-museums-you-should-know">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span><p> </p><p><br></p></span><div class="media clearfix"><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/03/27/485412/rwandas-thriving-wildlife-tourism-industry" target="_blank"><img alt="Rwandas Thriving Wildlife Tourism Industry" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104874/fit/80x80/image1.png?timestamp=1711639361" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/03/27/485412/rwandas-thriving-wildlife-tourism-industry" target="_blank">Rwanda's Thriving Wildlife Tourism Industry</a></h4>
<p>Within the tourism sector, nature-based tourism, which accounts for 80% of leisure and business visitors in Rwanda, not only helps protect biodiversity and advance Rwanda’s efforts to ada... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/03/27/485412/rwandas-thriving-wildlife-tourism-industry">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><div class="media clearfix"><br></div></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>
urn:uuid:cd7919f7-158f-4b58-87b6-a6a10a0acab5
2024-03-25T12:50:30-04:00
2024-03-26T10:46:47-04:00
Rwanda's Thriving Wildlife Tourism Industry
2024-03-27 10:00:00 -0400
Boitumelo Masihleho
<span><p>According to the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d44148-024-00031-y">Wildlife Economy Investment Index </a>report, Rwanda has been named 6th in Africa for wildlife conservation, scoring 56.7%. The Wildlife Economy Investment Index report, yet to be officially launched, indicates the investment potential in Africa’s wildlife economy. It assesses five significant investment avenues within ecotourism, the carbon market, hunting, wildlife ranching, and forest products.</p><p>Rwanda’s tourism revenue rose by 171%, from US$164 million in 2021 to US$445 million recorded in 2022, according to <a href="https://rdb.rw/reports/RDB-Annual-Report-2022.pdf">the 2022 annual report by the Rwanda Development Board</a> (RDB). This growth represents an 89% recovery compared with the pre-COVID-19 pandemic period. Tourism is a major source of Rwanda’s foreign exchange earnings and tends to generate more formal sector jobs than other sectors. Within the tourism sector, nature-based tourism, which accounts for 80% of leisure and business visitors in Rwanda, not only helps protect biodiversity and advance Rwanda’s efforts to adapt to climate change but also plays an important role in job creation.</p><p><br></p><div><br><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104875/fill/700x0/image3.png?timestamp=1711385026"></div><p> <br>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/10/29/470243/top-8-ecotourism-destinations-in-africa-in-2023" target="_blank"><img alt="Top 8 Ecotourism Destinations in Africa in 2023" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1070929/fit/80x80/image5.png?timestamp=1711385120" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/10/29/470243/top-8-ecotourism-destinations-in-africa-in-2023" target="_blank">Top 8 Ecotourism Destinations in Africa in 2023</a></h4>
<p>Ecotourism offers travelers the opportunity to connect with nature, immerse in local cultures, and learn about conservation efforts. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/10/29/470243/top-8-ecotourism-destinations-in-africa-in-2023">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><p>A visit to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is unforgettable. Situated in the far northwest of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park protects the steep slopes of this magnificent mountain range – home of the endangered mountain gorilla and a rich mosaic of montane ecosystems, which embrace evergreen and bamboo forest, open grassland, swamp, and heath. Rwanda is one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world. The tourism sector in Rwanda is more than 80% nature-based, indicating that ecotourism forms a substantial part of the tourism sector.</p><span><p>Volcanoes National Park is named after the chain of dormant volcanoes making up the Virunga Massif: Karisimbi – the highest at 4,507m, Bisoke with its verdant crater lake, Sabinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura. Some of these volcano mountains are shared by other bordering countries such as Mount Muhabura which has its part standing in neighboring Uganda in the north and is known as Muhavura from the Ugandan side.</p><p>Tracking endangered mountain gorillas through the mysterious rain forest, alive with the calls of 200 species of colorful birds and chattering of the rare golden monkey, is only one of the truly unique experiences in the area. Rare mountain gorillas and golden monkeys reside on the slopes of Rwanda’s Virungas, just a three-hour drive from Kigali International Airport. The lush slopes of these volcanoes provide a dramatic natural setting for one of the most thrilling and memorable wildlife experiences – seeing the mountain gorilla in its natural habitat.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104876/fill/700x0/image2.png?timestamp=1711385062"></div><p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/01/23/478741/enwe-lagwa-african-monkeys-that-bury-their-dead" target="_blank"><img alt="Enwe Lagwa African Monkeys That Bury Their Dead" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1089897/fit/80x80/image1.jpg?timestamp=1711385139" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/01/23/478741/enwe-lagwa-african-monkeys-that-bury-their-dead" target="_blank">Enwe Lagwa: African Monkeys That Bury Their Dead</a></h4>
<p>Monkeys and other wild animals are hunted in Nigeria and other African countries. However,
this is different in the Lagwa community, where monkeys have been respected and preserved
sinc... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/01/23/478741/enwe-lagwa-african-monkeys-that-bury-their-dead">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><div>Akagera National Park was founded in 1934 but by 1997 much of its wildlife and two-thirds of its territory, roughly 10% of the country, had been lost to poaching and farming. Lions were gone, and leopards were hit pretty heavily just because people were trying to graze livestock in the park. A partnership between the Rwanda Development Board (a government agency) and African Parks, a non-profit dedicated to rehabilitating conservation areas across Africa, led to the creation of the Akagera Management Company – tasked with overseeing the park’s resurgence. That partnership has changed things. It is now Central Africa’s largest protected wetland and the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted species in Rwanda.<br></div></span><span><p>Rwanda has positioned itself as a high-yield, low-volume destination in keeping with its conservation-centric approach to tourism. Over the past 27 years, Rwanda capitalized on this opportunity and created a growing ecotourism industry. Rwanda’s tourism industry is the largest source of foreign exchange earnings, contributing over USD 445 million to the local economy in 2022, which has contributed to the country’s sustainable development through job creation, business opportunities, and environmental conservation efforts. Akagera’s Rwandan staff work with international scientists, and biologists, and in turn offer guests a high-end, informative experience that brings in much-needed conservation dollars.</p><p><br></p><div><span><p><b>Source</b></p><ul><li><p><a href="https://apanews.net/rwanda-ranked-africas-number-6-in-wildlife-conservation/">APA News</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://farandwild.travel/wilder/article/rwanda-conservation-community-and-sustainability">Far And Wild</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.visitrwanda.com/rwanda-your-next-luxury-eco-tourism-destination/">Visit Rwanda</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://rwandaecocompany.com/the-five-volcano-mountains-in-rwanda/">Rwanda Eco Company</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/rwanda">Lonely Planet</a></p></li></ul><div><br><br></div></span><span>Read also:<br><br></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/10/27/415847/black-women-can-travel-safely-to-these-places" target="_blank"><img alt="Black Women Can Travel Safely to These Places " src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/958551/fit/80x80/image2.png?timestamp=1711385166" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/10/27/415847/black-women-can-travel-safely-to-these-places" target="_blank">Black Women Can Travel Safely to These Places </a></h4>
<p>In 2019 alone, Black U.S. leisure travelers spent a whopping $129.6 billion on domestic and international travel according to The Black Traveler: Insights, Opportunities, and Priorities. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/10/27/415847/black-women-can-travel-safely-to-these-places">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/12/22/476209/7-black-owned-travel-goodies-to-grab-for-your-next-trip" target="_blank"><img alt="7 Black-Owned Travel Goodies to Grab for Your Next Trip " src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1084077/fit/80x80/image4.png?timestamp=1711385175" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/12/22/476209/7-black-owned-travel-goodies-to-grab-for-your-next-trip" target="_blank">7 Black-Owned Travel Goodies to Grab for Your Next Trip </a></h4>
<p>For your gifting needs this holiday season, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite chic and useful travel products made by Black-owned businesses. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/12/22/476209/7-black-owned-travel-goodies-to-grab-for-your-next-trip">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/10/09/414454/the-most-beautiful-black-owned-hotels-and-resorts-you-should-visit" target="_blank"><img alt="The Most Beautiful Black-Owned Hotels and Resorts You Should Visit" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/955226/fit/80x80/Black_20Owned_20Hotel_20-_20B.jpg?timestamp=1711385185" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/10/09/414454/the-most-beautiful-black-owned-hotels-and-resorts-you-should-visit" target="_blank">The Most Beautiful Black-Owned Hotels and Resorts You Should Visit</a></h4>
<p>Check out this list of incredible Black-owned hotels and resorts in various, beautiful places around the globe.
<span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/10/09/414454/the-most-beautiful-black-owned-hotels-and-resorts-you-should-visit">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div><br><br><br><br><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1711385234"></div> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. <br></div><p></p><p>She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><span><br><br><br></span></p><p>Read more from Boitumelo Masihleho:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/08/26/448914/childrens-books-that-encourage-your-kids-to-see-the-world" target="_blank"><img alt="Childrens Books That Encourage Your Kids To See The World" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1032790/fit/80x80/image6.png?timestamp=1711385246" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/08/26/448914/childrens-books-that-encourage-your-kids-to-see-the-world" target="_blank">Children's Books That Encourage Your Kids To See The World</a></h4>
<p>Books with a travel theme are a great way to open your children’s minds to new adventures and excitement about the world around us. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/08/26/448914/childrens-books-that-encourage-your-kids-to-see-the-world">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/11/23/473110/a-guide-to-shopping-black-owned-businesses-in-south-africa" target="_blank"><img alt="A Guide to Shopping Black-Owned Businesses in South Africa " src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1076972/fit/80x80/image1.jpg?timestamp=1711385269" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/11/23/473110/a-guide-to-shopping-black-owned-businesses-in-south-africa" target="_blank">A Guide to Shopping Black-Owned Businesses in South Africa </a></h4>
<p>"Local is Lekker” is a common South African phrase meaning the things close to home are often the best. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/11/23/473110/a-guide-to-shopping-black-owned-businesses-in-south-africa">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/01/31/479847/8-black-female-travel-influencers-to-follow-for-your-first-trip-in-2024" target="_blank"><img alt="8 Black Female Travel Influencers to Follow for Your First Trip in 2024" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1092189/fit/80x80/image5.jpg?timestamp=1711385286" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/01/31/479847/8-black-female-travel-influencers-to-follow-for-your-first-trip-in-2024" target="_blank">8 Black Female Travel Influencers to Follow for Your First Trip in 2024</a></h4>
<p>The inspiration for your next trip is just a scroll away. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/01/31/479847/8-black-female-travel-influencers-to-follow-for-your-first-trip-in-2024">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p></div></span></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>
urn:uuid:13b0dcfc-515a-4a1f-a6eb-2862658bc6d0
2024-03-26T10:46:34-04:00
2024-03-26T10:46:39-04:00
Sing In Spring
2024-03-26 12:00:00 -0400
FunTimes Staff
<span><p><b><i>FunTimes Magazine</i> ‘Culture + Entertainment,” Week of March 25, 2024</b></p><p> </p><p> </p><p>“I am not afraid of tomorrow, for I have seen yesterday and I love today.”</p><p> <i> -Marian Anderson </i></p><span><br><br></span><span><p>On June 8, 2024, the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts Verizon Hall in Center City Philadelphia officially will be renamed Marian Anderson Hall in honor of the late legendary contralto.</p><p>Taking the inspirational cue from trailblazers like iconic singer and civil rights activist Marian Anderson, this week’s column tells the women’s story; it embraces the past, celebrates the present, and smiles toward the future. FunTimers, read on for low-cost, or free events, focusing on the business and cultural achievements and activities of women, as Women’s History Month takes a glorious final 2024 bow. And don’t forget: When event-going, please take precautions, especially when in groups and indoors, with the current COVID-19 variants and other infectious health threats. Check with the event organizers about their safety protocols, and also any changes due to inclement weather. </p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105122/fill/700x0/image6.jpg?timestamp=1711462876"></div><p> </p><span><h2>Pop Up market showcases Black artisans</h2><b></b><br><p><b>Saturday, March 30, 2024.</b> Check out cool items for sale created by local Black artists and merchants in Philadelphia at the <b>Art Star Pop-Up Market: Highlighting Women Makers</b>. The event will be a great close to highlighting female entrepreneurism during Women’s History Month. The spotlight will shine brightly on these highly skilled creatives and women-owned small businesses selling jewelry, ceramics, mugs, art prints, and candles. Free entry, 11 a.m. EST to 4 p.m. EST, Independence Visitor Center (North End of the building), 599 Market St.</p><p><a href="https://www.artstarcraftbazaar.com/popup-market-visitor-center/">https://www.artstarcraftbazaar.com/popup-market-visitor-center/</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105124/fill/700x0/image5.jpg?timestamp=1711462923">Storyteller Saundra Gilliard<br><br></div></span><span><h2>Telling a good story…</h2><br><p><b>Saturday, March 30, 2024</b>. It’s great to live a great story and also to tell a great story. Saundra Gilliard has the natural gift of storytelling. Enjoy <b>Storytelling with Saundra Gilliard</b> in connection with the ongoing exhibition,<i> </i><a href="https://www.inliquid.org/inliquid-gallery-events/dolls-idols-and-ideals"><i>Dolls, Idols, and Ideals</i></a>. Gilliard will present an array of riveting stories from West Africa, Black America, and the Caribbean that inspired the artists of <i>Dolls, Idols, and Ideals</i>, Kimberly Camp and Emilio Maldonado. Gilliard’s stories will help viewers better understand the works. The exhibit features more than one dozen homemade dolls. The artists examine their identities, labels, lineages, and “how they create their power while stranded in a ‘new world.” Camp and Maldonado employ symbols as a way of referencing their ancestry and spirituality. The gifted Gilliard will bring the exhibit to life as a nationally recognized storyteller. For 20 years, her stage performances and training “playshops” have promoted and cultivated Sacred Feminine Practices and techniques. She is the founder of Femininely Free!, and the current co-chair of the Philadelphia Folklore Project. Storytelling with Sandra Gilliard is free, but register in advance; doors will open at 2.45 p.m. EST; the performance will be at 3:15 p.m. EST. Appropriate for ages 10 and up. The InLiquid Gallery, the Crane Arts Building, 1400 N. American St. (Gallery 108). 215-235-3405 or <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/story-telling-with-saundra-gilliard-tickets-810247119947" target="_blank">eventbrite.com</a> or <a href="https://www.inliquid.org/exhibit/story-telling-with-saundra-gilliard" target="_blank">inliquid.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105126/fill/700x0/image8.jpg?timestamp=1711463118"></div><p> </p><h2>A women’s (artistic) touch</h2><p><b><br></b></p><p><b>Saturday, March 30, 2024.</b> It’s all about the women at the <b>State of the Art Showcase</b>, a “celebration of empowerment and resilience.” Learn, create, and connect in an environment of artists who will proudly showcase their stellar works of artistic expression. Enjoy “Art Talk” led by the collector Tierra Rich who will give her insights about the artwork on display. Take part in a special “Hilofiber Class” presented by Miranda Lopez. Learn about fiber arts material, a medium using natural or synthetic fiber, and other components, such as fabric or yarn (available on a first-come, first-served basis; arrive early to get a spot). Free, 7 p.m. EST to 11 p.m. EST. Culture Currency Studios, 3460 J St. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/state-of-the-art-showcase-womens-history-month-edition-tickets-865199112837" target="_blank">eventbrite.com</a> or <a href="https://www.creativephl.org/event/state-of-the-art-showcase-womens-history-month-edition/" target="_blank">creativephl.org</a>. </p><div><br><br><br><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105131/fill/700x0/campus_20philly.png?timestamp=1711463670"></div><p><br></p></div></span><span><h2>The career fair is near</h2><p><b><br></b></p><p><b>Tuesday, April 2, 2024. </b>The first career lesson for recent college graduates is that it can be a full-time job looking for a job. But they can make that challenge less daunting by registering for <b>Campus Philly's Spring Career Event</b>. Network with employers in the Greater Philadelphia area. Make a great first impression. Shop your resumes and bring your dress-to-impress ‘A’ game. Internship opportunities also are available at this job fair. More than 200 college students and dozens of companies, institutions, and organizations from the Philadelphia region are expected to take part. The event is presented by The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, with support from Comcast, Independence Blue Cross, and JPMorgan Chase & Co. Camps Philly’s mission is to help attract and retain college students and graduates in the area through initiatives such as internship programs and career fairs. Free, but pre-registration is required. Saxby Cafe, Community College of Philadelphia. 1700 Spring Garden St., 5 p.m. EST to 7 p.m. EST. E-mail: <a href="mailto:shaquierra@campusphilly.org">shaquierra@campusphilly.org</a>, 215-988-1707 or <a href="https://campusphilly.org/event/campus-philly-career-event-launch-your-career-and-stay-local/" target="_blank">campusphilly.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105133/fill/700x0/image7.png?timestamp=1711463794"></div><p> </p><h2>Here’s what’s on tap.</h2><p><br></p><b>Wednesday, April 3, 2024.</b> We interrupt our column saluting women during Women’s History Month with this special event announcement: Come out for a community jazz jam at Bob and Barbara’s! All tap dancers and all musicians are welcome. Bring your shoes and a friend! For ages 21 and older. I mean how many occasions in cultural life is there a bona fide call for tap dancers? They must be channeling the late and great Hines Brothers or Sammy Davis, Jr. Hosted by <a href="https://www.creativephl.org/organizer/">The Philadelphia Jazz Tap Ensemble</a>, the event is called<b> Community Jazz Jam</b>. So go on, jump in feet first. $15 donation encouraged, 9 p.m. EST to midnight. <a href="https://www.creativephl.org/venue/bob-barbaras-lounge/">Bob & Barbara’s Lounge</a> 1509 South St. 215-545-4511 or 267-273-6937.<br><br><br><br></span></span></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1105134/fill/700x0/image1.png?timestamp=1711463849"></div><p> </p><span><h2>Your business is our business</h2><p><b><br></b></p><p><i>FunTimes</i> recently offered a golden opportunity for local businesses to brag about their products, services, and success stories. To support and elevate Black-owned companies/businesses, from lifestyles to health, <i>FunTimes</i> created the <b>Business Insider Magazine Series</b>. The business promotion, through small video vignettes, shines a deserving spotlight availing a huge readership of more than 100,000 followers through our dynamic social media platforms. Free. Check it out. <a href="http://funtimesmagazine.com" target="_blank">funtimesmagazine.com</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div><br></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>
urn:uuid:0e4ad745-5cd1-45e6-8ac4-594e1817e146
2024-03-25T11:15:14-04:00
2024-03-25T11:48:04-04:00
Harmonies of Resistance: A Story of Black Music Revolution in South Africa
2024-03-26 10:00:00 -0400
The Conversation via Reuters Connect
<p>Biography cover detail. Maluks Books</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><span><p>Biographies of important South African musicians often fall into two categories: they either emerge from Ph.D. or other university-based research or are the fruit of dedicated digging by a fan or family member. The first kind benefits from institutional resources and support; the second from community knowledge of personal details that may be documented nowhere else.</p><br><p>Because of that very scarcity of a public record, the first kind might miss many parts of the story that can’t be checked in formal records and archives. The second risks being bent out of shape by hero-worship or fallible memory.</p><br><p>Sydney Fetsie Maluleke’s book <a href="https://www.google.co.za/books/edition/The_Life_and_Times/1qyXtQEACAAJ?hl=en" target="_blank"><i>The Life and Times of the Soul Brothers</i></a><i> </i>benefits from an author with a foot in each camp. Maluleke is a university-schooled researcher, but also an insider fan – he’s administered the band’s <a href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Soul-Brothers-100044409727019/" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> and comes from a family who, by his own account, were even more fanatical than he is about the legendary <a href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-soul-brothers-mn0000044338#biography" target="_blank">band</a>.</p><br><p>So the book, recently revised and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjMypAcv41g" target="_blank">relaunched</a> for its second edition, combines the strengths of both kinds of biography and avoids most of their weaknesses.</p><br><p>The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVo6lHNFkz3h-aWIaR-pa-g" target="_blank">Soul Brothers</a>, formed in KwaZulu-Natal province in the mid-1970s by the late vocalist <a href="https://www.timeslive.co.za/sunday-times/opinion-and-analysis/2015-07-12-obituary-david-masondo-lead-singer-of-sowetos-legendary-soul-brothers/" target="_blank">David Masondo</a> and keyboardist <a href="https://iono.fm/e/1373266" target="_blank">Black Moses Ngwenya</a> (and still working as a band today, though with new players), was the outfit that shaped the sound of South African <a href="https://www.masterclass.com/articles/mbaqanga-music-guide" target="_blank">mbaqanga</a>. That’s the name of a popular genre blending traditional African vocal styles and lyrical tropes with transformed borrowings from Western pop. It grew from a predominantly Zulu-speaking fanbase to dominate Black South African hit parades for more than a decade.</p><br><p>The band scored multiple gold and platinum hits, and although their most recent studio recording was more than a decade ago, the Soul Brothers’ music still gets radio play and is popular at family and neighborhood parties. Soul Brothers were innovators. They drew in members from across language groups, and multiple inspirations, at the very time the South African <a href="https://www.sahistory.org.za/article/history-apartheid-south-africa" target="_blank">apartheid</a> regime was entrenching separation and difference.</p><br><p>Incorporating Ngwenya’s soul keyboard into what had begun as Zulu close-harmony vocals and guitar work was as startling an innovation for mbaqanga as US musician <a href="https://raycharles.com/" target="_blank">Ray Charles</a>’ introduction of electric piano had been for American rhythm and blues.</p><br><p>Tired of exploitation by big, White-run record labels, the Soul Brothers also established their label and studio, making them part of South Africa’s first generation of modern Black music entrepreneurs too.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104864/fill/700x0/soul_20brothers.jpg?timestamp=1711380771"></div><p> A recent performance of the band. Source: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Soul-Brothers-100044409727019/" target="_blank">Soul Brothers | Facebook</a></p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/09/14/465345/sylvia-mdunyelwa-one-of-south-africas-great-jazz-vocalists-kept-music-traditions-alive" target="_blank"><img alt="Sylvia Mdunyelwa one of South Africas great jazz vocalists kept music traditions alive" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1058435/fit/80x80/sylvia_20mdunyelwa.png?timestamp=1711381048" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/09/14/465345/sylvia-mdunyelwa-one-of-south-africas-great-jazz-vocalists-kept-music-traditions-alive" target="_blank">Sylvia Mdunyelwa, one of South Africa's great jazz vocalists, kept music traditions alive</a></h4>
<p>Mdunyelwa merits recognition not only for the regard she won from fellow players but also for her activism as a community music educator and advocate for South African jazz. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/09/14/465345/sylvia-mdunyelwa-one-of-south-africas-great-jazz-vocalists-kept-music-traditions-alive">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p></span><span><p>Maluleke’s book takes us through all these developments. Though its subtitle describes the narrative as told “through the eyes of Black Moses”, he’s careful to source what he learns, label what is contested, and acknowledge that other interpretations are possible.</p><br><p>The book’s voice is resonantly human. Though chapters are organized thematically around the lives of various artists and the group’s stages of development, the story backtracks repeats, and comes at the same subject from different angles, just as people do when they speak. At points, I found myself hankering for more direct quotes from these insider voices and less paraphrasing.</p><br><p>The book’s first edition in 2017, Maluleke tells us, left out the setbacks and disputes from the tale, something for which Ngwenya himself gently rebuked the author. So in this second edition, we learn also, for example, of the professionalism that permitted spellbinding and seamless ensemble performances onstage while, behind the scenes, the principals were not talking to one another because of disputes over leadership and power dynamics.</p><br><p>Maluleke and his family’s obsessive fandom, meanwhile, means there’s a priceless archive of press clippings, album covers and photographs to draw on. That provides nearly 40 pages of illustrative evidence to deepen the story.</p><br><p>Along the way, there are multiple bonuses not advertised on the cover: histories of associated musicians such as the veteran <a href="https://umsakazo.bandcamp.com/album/makgona-tsohle-reggi" target="_blank">Makgona Tsohle Band</a>, explanations of tradition, and descriptions of township community life more than half a century ago. Though the <a href="https://www.britannica.com/topic/township-South-Africa" target="_blank">townships</a> – segregated and impoverished areas for Black workers removed from the “White” cities – had been designed by apartheid, residents built their rich networks of solidarity, self-help, and shared culture. Music was one of its <a href="https://books.google.co.za/books/about/Soweto_Blues.html?id=_fwkCIKoTpgC&redir_esc=y" target="_blank">pillars</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104868/fill/700x0/hluphekile.png?timestamp=1711381570">Screencapture of music video <i>Hluphekile</i>. Source: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vf_c0y3S3E&t=2s" target="_blank">Soul Brothers | YouTube</a><br><br></div></div><p>Read also:</p></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/05/12/434805/south-africa-s-hidden-jazz-history-is-being-restored-album-by-album" target="_blank"><img alt="South Africas hidden jazz history is being restored album by album" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1000083/fit/80x80/abdullah_20ibrahim.jpeg?timestamp=1711381675" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/05/12/434805/south-africa-s-hidden-jazz-history-is-being-restored-album-by-album" target="_blank">South Africa’s hidden jazz history is being restored album by album</a></h4>
<p>It’s fitting that Johannesburg is among 12 cities featured in the 2023 Unesco International Jazz Day, themed “jazz journey around the world” <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/05/12/434805/south-africa-s-hidden-jazz-history-is-being-restored-album-by-album">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span><p> </p><p><br></p><br><p>For me, a big surprise was learning that the young Ngwenya – regarded today as South Africa’s finest mbaqanga keyboardist – was inspired back in the 1960s by watching the rehearsals of the band Durban Expressions, whose keyboardist became one of the country’s finest jazz players: the late <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/news/obituaries/bheki-mseleku-south-african-jazz-pianist-932017.html" target="_blank">Bheki Mseleku</a>.</p><br><p>All those are strengths that could make the book a storehouse of inspiration for music scholars. Each one of its details and detours could inspire a study of its own.</p><br><p>The book’s flaws, where they exist, emerge from the strains of producing a book on a shoestring budget. Maluleke, quoting Nigerian writer <a href="https://www.britannica.com/biography/Chinua-Achebe" target="_blank">Chinua Achebe</a>, wrote it because he determined the history of lions must not be written by the hunters alone. The book did have one editor: veteran broadcaster and popular music expert Max Mojapelo, whose encyclopedic industry knowledge no doubt enriched the history.</p><br><p>But it needed another, more prosaic kind of editor as well: a copy editor.</p><br><p>There are rather too many typographical errors and inconsistencies, for example, the use of italics for song and album titles. Some date references are unrevised from the 2017 edition. And there is no index; which makes the contents less accessible.</p><br><p>Yet, if Maluleke had waited until more resources were available, he – and we – might still be waiting. A story hugely important for South African popular music history would have remained largely untold. He made the right choice.</p><br><p>Every music fan eager to understand how the “indestructible sound of Soweto” was born and shaped is in his debt.</p><p><br></p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/12/28/476783/king-of-afrobeats-nigeria-ghana-and-south-africa-music-tussle" target="_blank"><img alt="King of Afrobeats Nigeria Ghana and South Africa Music Tussle" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1085086/fit/80x80/image1.jpg?timestamp=1711381164" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/12/28/476783/king-of-afrobeats-nigeria-ghana-and-south-africa-music-tussle" target="_blank">King of Afrobeats? Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa Music Tussle</a></h4>
<p> In the vast and evolving terrain of African music, Afrobeats has emerged as the heavyweight champion and firmly entrenched itself in the hearts of music enthusiasts globally. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/12/28/476783/king-of-afrobeats-nigeria-ghana-and-south-africa-music-tussle">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/02/06/425337/all-time-african-most-influential-musicians" target="_blank"><img alt="All-Time African Most Influential Musicians " src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/979521/fit/80x80/image8.jpg?timestamp=1711381275" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/06/425337/all-time-african-most-influential-musicians" target="_blank">All-Time African Most Influential Musicians </a></h4>
<p>African music has been an integral part of the culture for centuries, and many great musicians have emerged from the continent. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/06/425337/all-time-african-most-influential-musicians">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/08/29/449727/madosini-honoring-a-black-south-african-gem-whose-music-breathes-life-into-rich-heritage" target="_blank"><img alt="Madosini Honoring a Black South African Gem Whose Music Breathes Life into Rich Heritage" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1034212/fit/80x80/Madosini-2-1024x681.jpeg?timestamp=1711381333" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/08/29/449727/madosini-honoring-a-black-south-african-gem-whose-music-breathes-life-into-rich-heritage" target="_blank">Madosini: Honoring a Black South African Gem Whose Music Breathes Life into Rich Heritage</a></h4>
<p>The cultural and indigenous music activist, who laughed as often as she played, was loved by everyone she met. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/08/29/449727/madosini-honoring-a-black-south-african-gem-whose-music-breathes-life-into-rich-heritage">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><span><br><br></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>
urn:uuid:59337749-327a-49a9-84cf-9608d1ee2a8e
2024-03-21T11:29:25-04:00
2024-03-25T10:19:22-04:00
Holi: Celebrating The Indian Festival Of Color Across America
2024-03-25 10:00:00 -0400
Gift Joe
<span><p>Holi festival in Spanish Fork, Utah. Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@capturelight?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash">John Thomas</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/people-gathering-on-a-concert-LtE6W_JVTGc?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash">Unsplash</a></p><p><br></p></span><span><p>Holi, the vibrant Indian festival of colors, is a celebration marking the beginning of spring after a long winter and signifying the triumph of good over evil. Holi is a festival celebrated annually around the end of February or early March. The exact timing varies a little in correspondence with the Hindu calendar's month of Phalguna. For example, in 2023, Holi began on March 8. But in 2024, the holiday will be on March 25.<br></p><p>Holi, the only time it's socially acceptable to look like a rainbow exploded on you, takes place in a variety of countries all over the world. Though originating in India, the festival has transcended borders, bringing its joyous spirit to those celebrating.</p><p>Holi has been celebrated since time immemorial in India, and like many ancient holidays that are still actively celebrated today, there are different versions of the Holi story. One common and popular version is that Hiranyakashipu, a demon king, became so powerful that he forced his subjects to worship him as a god. However, his son Prahlad was a devotee of Lord Vishnu and refused to follow the order. This got the king angry, and he plotted with his sister Holika to kill his defiant son. The sorceress created a bonfire, planning to burn Prahlad to ashes. However, the boy survived, and the evil Holika met her end in the fire. Holika’s name is where Holi gets its name, and is said to mark her defeat and the triumph of good over evil forces.</p><br><h2>How Holi Is Traditionally Celebrated</h2><br><br></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104106/fill/700x0/pexels-aneesh-ans-1211968.jpg?timestamp=1711127001"></div><p> Photo by <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-painted-the-face-of-man-1211968/" target="_blank">Aneesh Ans</a></p><span><br><p>In India, this period is a time to let loose and celebrate life. In the days leading up to the festival, the streets are lined with stalls selling powdered colors, pichkaris (water pistols), and other festival-related paraphernalia.</p><p>On the eve of Holi, some communities begin the festivities by lighting bonfires in a celebration known as Holika Dahan, or Choti Holi to signify the burning of evil spirits. Songs and dances take place around the bonfire. Various items are often thrown into the flames, including wood, dry leaves, twigs, and even roasting grains, popcorn, coconuts, and chickpeas. Once the bonfires have gone out, some Hindus smear the ashes on their bodies as a purifying ritual.</p><p>However, Holi’s signature tradition is the throwing of colored powders, as such, no one wears their best clothes. People take to the streets, fully immersing themselves in color from head to toe. Family and friends gather to playfully throw colorful paint and bright powders at each other and into the air. A troupe also plays a traditional wooden drum called a dhol while dancing amid the colors. Each color carries a different meaning during Holi.</p><ul><li><p>Red – the color symbolizes love and fertility.</p></li><li><p>Yellow - the color of turmeric, a powder native to India and used as a natural remedy is both a symbol of health and native pride.</p></li><li><p>Blue - this represents the Hindu God Krishna.</p></li><li><p>Green - symbolizes new growth and new beginnings.</p></li></ul><p>Another aspect of the festival is the throwing of water from the streets and the rooftops. After all the color and water throwing, a feast usually follows, with traditional foods like gujiya (a deep-fried sweet with dried fruit), dahi bhalla (a yogurt dish garnished with savory chutney), and lassi (a chilled, refreshing yogurt drink), to name a few. People also exchange candies and sweets with loved ones, neighbors, and friends.</p><p><br></p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix"><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/04/19/432084/the-incredible-story-of-how-east-african-culture-shaped-the-music-of-a-state-in-india" target="_blank"><img alt="The incredible story of how east African culture shaped the music of a state in India" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/994809/fit/80x80/siddi1.png?timestamp=1711127058" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/04/19/432084/the-incredible-story-of-how-east-african-culture-shaped-the-music-of-a-state-in-india" target="_blank">The incredible story of how east African culture shaped the music of a state in India</a></h4>
<p>The term Siddi refers to Afro-Indians – Africans who mixed with Indians through marriage and relationships. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/04/19/432084/the-incredible-story-of-how-east-african-culture-shaped-the-music-of-a-state-in-india">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><p><br></p></div><h2>Holi Celebration In America</h2><br><br><p>The color festival is most popular in India, but Holi celebrations also happen around the world. Originally, Holi celebrations in the US were limited to South Asian Hindu communities wanting to preserve their cultural connections to home. Today, people of all ethnicities and cultures join in.</p><p>While not a traditional American holiday, Holi has gained immense popularity in recent years. It has found a new home in the US, especially in cities with large Indian populations. The festival is celebrated with gaiety and a lot of fanfare across different cities.</p><p><b>New York City:</b> The city sees lively Holi celebrations with large-scale events in Central Park and Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Some of the attractions are parades, and the addition of dances, fashion shows, and music concerts. This attracts thousands of participants, transforming the landscape into a sea of colors.</p><p><b>Los Angeles: </b>Popular venues like Wickham Park and Balboa Park host events featuring music, dance, delicious Indian food, and of course, the colorful throwing of gulal. California's sunshine sets the perfect backdrop for Holi celebrations.</p><p><b>Houston: </b>Holi is also one of the largest South Asian events in Houston, with huge parties thrown across the city. Festivals held at India House and Mahatma Gandhi District attract thousands of event-goers. The large crowd enjoys energetic music, dance performances, and a chance to experience the joy of Holi firsthand.</p><p><b>New Jersey: </b>This is a Holi hotspot because of its significant Indian population. Many Holi festivals are hosted across the state in March.</p><p><b>Chicago:</b> Just like in India, the "Windy City" embraces Holi with the same colorful, playful, family-filled fun and devotion. Families come together to create colorful memories and enjoy traditional Indian sweets like Gulab Jamun.</p><p><b>San Francisco:</b> Holi is a great deal in San Francisco. There is an array of exciting events including festive colored Holi powders, live music, dance, and delicious multicultural food. From rain dancing to beach party, there is a lot to look forward to this Holi.</p><p><b>Utah: </b>Spanish Fork, Utah, hosts a Holi celebration. It's based at the local Krishna temple. Attendees are invited to throw a handful of their colorful powder to the wind at the top of every hour and join in the celebration of the event.</p><br>Read also:<br></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/11/16/375067/history-of-diwali-and-its-importance-to-indian-culture" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/868437/fit/80x80/diwali_20thumb.jpg?timestamp=1711127041" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/11/16/375067/history-of-diwali-and-its-importance-to-indian-culture" target="_blank">History of Diwali and its Importance to Indian Culture</a></h4>
<p>Diwali is India's most significant celebration of the year, marking the victory of illumination over dark, wisdom over ignorance, and good over evil. The five days of Diwali are commemora... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/11/16/375067/history-of-diwali-and-its-importance-to-indian-culture">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/10/03/370353/the-siddi-people-indias-forgotten-african-tribe" target="_blank"><img alt="Figure 1 - The Siddi Community Source - Google" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/857281/fit/80x80/siddi.png?timestamp=1711127058" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/10/03/370353/the-siddi-people-indias-forgotten-african-tribe" target="_blank">The Siddi People: India's Forgotten African Tribe</a></h4>
<p>In this article, we will look at the Siddi people, who are one example of a heritage buried in the books of Indian history, and we will shine a light on those chapters. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/10/03/370353/the-siddi-people-indias-forgotten-african-tribe">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/06/03/437127/national-anthems-how-composers-in-south-africa-and-india-are-reimagining-them" target="_blank"><img alt="National anthems how composers in South Africa and India are reimagining them" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1004577/fit/80x80/head_20and_20load.jpeg?timestamp=1711127092" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/06/03/437127/national-anthems-how-composers-in-south-africa-and-india-are-reimagining-them" target="_blank">National anthems: how composers in South Africa and India are reimagining them</a></h4>
<p>In recent work, two prominent contemporary composers, Philip Miller in South Africa and Amit Chaudhuri in India, have explored fresh ways of interpreting national anthems. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/06/03/437127/national-anthems-how-composers-in-south-africa-and-india-are-reimagining-them">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Gift Joe:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/03/21/485016/world-poetry-day-celebrating-the-power-of-black-word" target="_blank"><img alt="World Poetry Day Celebrating the Power of Black Word" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103915/fit/80x80/pexels-cottonbro-studio-6334065.jpg?timestamp=1711127155" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/03/21/485016/world-poetry-day-celebrating-the-power-of-black-word" target="_blank">World Poetry Day: Celebrating the Power of Black Word</a></h4>
<p>From Langston Hughes to Dr. Maya Angelou and many others, Black poets throughout American history have been at the forefront of literary expression, using their works to educate and inspi... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/03/21/485016/world-poetry-day-celebrating-the-power-of-black-word">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/01/16/478455/the-odunde-festival-shaping-philadelphia-s-cultural-narrative" target="_blank"><img alt="The Odunde Festival Shaping Philadelphias Cultural Narrative" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1088866/fit/80x80/odunde2.jpeg?timestamp=1711127171" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/01/16/478455/the-odunde-festival-shaping-philadelphia-s-cultural-narrative" target="_blank">The Odunde Festival: Shaping Philadelphia’s Cultural Narrative</a></h4>
<p>One of Philadelphia’s brightest cultural jewels is the Odunde Festival which draws up to 500,000 people annually to celebrate African culture. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/01/16/478455/the-odunde-festival-shaping-philadelphia-s-cultural-narrative">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/03/17/484692/reclaiming-country-music-for-black-america-beyonc-s-bold-move-challenges-industry-norms" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103217/fit/80x80/beyonce.jpg?timestamp=1711127190" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/03/17/484692/reclaiming-country-music-for-black-america-beyonc-s-bold-move-challenges-industry-norms" target="_blank">Reclaiming Country Music For Black America: Beyoncé’s Bold Move Challenges Industry Norms</a></h4>
<p>“Texas Hold ‘Em” has already been a massive hit, becoming Beyoncé’s first #1 hit in country music when it debuted at the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This is the first ti... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/03/17/484692/reclaiming-country-music-for-black-america-beyonc-s-bold-move-challenges-industry-norms">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><span><br><p><br></p><br></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>
urn:uuid:16115455-ad5d-4e7b-bbd8-97566d2e6e04
2024-03-21T11:07:37-04:00
2024-03-21T12:46:47-04:00
Unsung Heroines: Celebrating Black Women Who Made History, But Didn't Make It Into History Books
2024-03-22 10:00:00 -0400
Boitumelo Masihleho
<span><h2>Althea Gibson</h2><br><p>Long before Venus and Serena Williams, another tall, young Black woman shook up the staid world of tennis with her powerful serve and brilliant play. Althea Neale Gibson was an African American tennis player and professional golfer, and one of the first Black athletes to cross the color line of international tennis. In 1956, she became the first African American to win a Grand Slam event. in 1950 became the first Black tennis player to enter the national grass-court championship tournament at Forest Hills in Queens, New York. The next year she entered the Wimbledon tournament, again as the first Black player ever invited.</p><p>Until 1956 Gibson had only fair success in match tennis play, but that year she won several tournaments in Asia and Europe, including the French and Italian singles titles and the women’s doubles title at Wimbledon. She also won the U.S. mixed doubles and the Australian women’s doubles in 1957. That year Gibson was voted Female Athlete of the Year by the Associated Press, becoming the first African American to receive the honor; she also won the award the following year. In 1971 she was elected to the International Tennis Hall of Fame.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104088/fill/700x0/image6.png?timestamp=1711031683"></div><p> </p><p><br></p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/10/04/413938/althea-gibson-the-first-black-female-tennis-player" target="_blank"><img alt="Althea Gibson The First Black Female Tennis Player" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/954044/fit/80x80/Althea_20_1_.jpg?timestamp=1711031643" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/10/04/413938/althea-gibson-the-first-black-female-tennis-player" target="_blank">Althea Gibson: The First Black Female Tennis Player</a></h4>
<p> As an incredible athlete and trailblazer, Gibson was the first African American to win a Grand Slam tennis title who went on to win 11 more. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/10/04/413938/althea-gibson-the-first-black-female-tennis-player">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><div><span><h2>Bessie Coleman</h2><br><p>Born to sharecroppers in a small Texas town, Elizabeth “Bessie” Coleman became interested in flying while living in Chicago, where stories about the exploits of World War I pilots piqued her interest. Coleman was an American aviator and a star of early aviation exhibitions and air shows. African Americans and women had no flight training opportunities in the United States, so she saved and obtained sponsorships in Chicago to go to France for flight school. In 1921 she became the first Black woman to earn a pilot’s license. In 1922, she performed the first public flight by an African American woman. She was famous for doing “loop-the-loops” and making the shape of an “8” in an airplane. People were fascinated by her performances, and she became more popular both in the United States and in Europe. She toured the country giving flight lessons and performing in flight shows, and she encouraged African Americans and women to learn how to fly. Fans called her “Queen Bess” and “Brave Bessie.”</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104089/fill/700x0/image5.png?timestamp=1711031729"></div><p> </p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/02/27/427353/the-tuskegee-airmen-and-their-contribution-to-the-military-during-world-war-ii" target="_blank"><img alt="pEight Tuskegee Airmen in front of a P-40 fighter aircraft a href" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/984012/fit/80x80/Tuskegee_Airmen_-_Circa_May_1942_to_Aug_1943.jpeg?timestamp=1711031746"></a><br><p></p><br></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/27/427353/the-tuskegee-airmen-and-their-contribution-to-the-military-during-world-war-ii" target="_blank">The Tuskegee Airmen And Their Contribution To The Military During World War II</a></h4>
<p>Their service and dedication to the military during a time when racism was rampant is a testament to their courage and patriotism. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/27/427353/the-tuskegee-airmen-and-their-contribution-to-the-military-during-world-war-ii">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><div><br><span><h2>Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander</h2><br><p>Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander was a pioneering Black professional and civil rights activist of the early-to-mid-20th century. In 1921, Mossell Alexander was the second African-American woman to receive a Ph.D. and the first one to receive one in economics in the United States. Alexander accomplished all this while often facing bitter acts of racial prejudice. As a first-year undergraduate at the University of Pennsylvania, she was told she couldn’t check books from the school library. A dean at the University of Pennsylvania School of Law lobbied against her being selected to join the university’s law review. She persevered and made the law review anyway.</p><p>Along with her husband, Alexander fought for Black Philadelphians to be allowed access to restaurants, hotels, and movie theaters. In 1946, President Truman appointed Alexander to be one of 16 members of the President's Committee on Civil Rights. She was also appointed to the White House Conference on Aging by President Jimmy Carter. In 1951, Alexander co-founded the Commission on Human Relations of the City of Philadelphia. She was a member of the commission from 1952 to 1968. <a href="https://www.sadiecollective.org/">The Sadie Collective</a> was named in honor of Alexander. The organization, formed by two Black women in 2018, encourages other Black women to enter economics and other data-driven fields. The Sadie Collective was named in honor of Alexander. The organization, formed by two Black women in 2018, encourages other Black women to enter economics and other data-driven fields.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104090/fill/700x0/image8.jpg?timestamp=1711031798"></div><p> </p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/09/04/450418/labor-day-remembering-6-black-women-who-fought-for-your-right-to-work" target="_blank"><img alt="Labor Day Remembering 6 Black women who fought for your right to work " src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1035869/fit/80x80/labor_20day_20women.jpg?timestamp=1711031838" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/09/04/450418/labor-day-remembering-6-black-women-who-fought-for-your-right-to-work" target="_blank">Labor Day: Remembering 6 Black women who fought for your right to work </a></h4>
<p>These women stood at the forefront of the battle for workers' rights, making the U.S. a safer, more equitable place to have a job. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/09/04/450418/labor-day-remembering-6-black-women-who-fought-for-your-right-to-work">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><h2>Daisy Gatson Bates<br></h2><br></span><span><p>Daisy Bates was born in Huttig, Arkansas in 1914 and raised in a foster home. When she was fifteen, she met her future husband and began traveling with him throughout the South. The couple settled in Little Rock, Arkansas, and started their newspaper. <i>The Arkansas Weekly</i> was one of the only African American newspapers solely dedicated to the Civil Rights Movement. The paper was circulated statewide. Bates not only worked as an editor but also regularly contributed articles. Bates became the president of the Arkansas chapter of the National Association for Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in 1952.</p><p>In 1954, the Supreme Court ruled segregated schools unconstitutional. After the ruling, Bates began gathering African American students to enroll at all-white schools. When the Little Rock Nine walked into Central High School in 1957, the entire country was watching. Bates selected nine students to integrate Central High School in Little Rock. She regularly drove the students to school and worked tirelessly to ensure they were protected from violent crowds. She also advised the group and even joined the school’s parent organization. </p><p>Due to Bates’ role in the integration, she was often a target for intimidation. Rocks were thrown into her home several times and she received bullet shells in the mail. The threats forced the Bates family to shut down their newspaper. After the success of the Little Rock Nine, Bates continued to work on improving the status of African Americans in the South. Her influential work with school integration brought her national recognition. In 1962, she published her memoir, The <i>Long Shadow of Little Rock</i>. Eventually, the book would win an American Book Award.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104091/fill/700x0/image7.png?timestamp=1711033748"></div><p> </p><p><br></p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/08/29/366627/youth-and-the-revolution-how-the-young-population-contributed-to-many-historical-moments" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/848693/fit/80x80/little_20rock_20nine.png?timestamp=1711033599" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/08/29/366627/youth-and-the-revolution-how-the-young-population-contributed-to-many-historical-moments" target="_blank">Youth and the Revolution: How the Young Population Contributed to Many Historical Moments </a></h4>
<p>This article will look at four revolutions led by Black teens that changed the course of history and paved the way for a more just and inclusive society. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/08/29/366627/youth-and-the-revolution-how-the-young-population-contributed-to-many-historical-moments">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><h2>Jane Bolin</h2><br><p>Jane Bolin became the first Black woman to break down many barriers during her life. However, the title for which she holds the most recognition is that of the first Black woman judge in the country. The daughter of an influential lawyer, Bolin grew up admiring her father’s leather-bound books while recoiling at photos of lynchings in the NAACP magazine. Wanting a career in social justice, Bolin was also the first Black woman to earn a law degree from Yale Law School, breaking another glass ceiling at the age of 23. Bolin worked with her family's practice in her home city for a time before marrying attorney Ralph E. Mizelle in 1933 and relocating to New York. As the decade progressed, after campaigning unsuccessfully for a state assembly seat on the Republican ticket, she took on assistant corporate counsel work for New York City, creating another landmark as the first African-American woman to hold that position. </p><p></p><p>On July 22, 1939, a 31-year-old Bolin was called to appear at the World's Fair before Mayor Fiorello La Guardia, who — completely unbeknownst to the attorney — had plans to swear her in as a judge. Using her position from the bench as a family court judge, Bolin fought against racial discrimination within the system and was a fierce advocate for children, particularly children of color, whose cases she oversaw. She also changed segregationist policies that had been entrenched in the system, including skin-color-based assignments for probation officers. Additionally, Bolin worked with First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt in providing support for the Wiltwyck School, a comprehensive, holistic program to help eradicate juvenile crime among boys.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104093/fill/700x0/image2.jpg?timestamp=1711033886"></div><p><br></p><p>Read also:</p></span><div class="media clearfix">
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/03/08/484052/i-am-woman-hear-me-roar-black-women-leading-the-charge-for-a-more-inclusive-world" target="_blank">I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar: Black Women Leading the Charge for a More Inclusive World</a></h4>
<p>In a world striving for diversity, equity, and inclusivity, Black women have been at the frontlines, making sure their voices are heard as they stand up for their rights while leading the... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/03/08/484052/i-am-woman-hear-me-roar-black-women-leading-the-charge-for-a-more-inclusive-world">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span><p> </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><h2>Barbara Jordan</h2><br></span><span><p>Barbara Jordan showed early interest in public speaking while getting up in front of the Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church as a child, and joining the debate team in high school. After completing studies at Texas Southern University, and Boston University School of Law, Jordan taught at Tuskegee University for a year, then returned to Houston to establish a private law firm. Jordan was an effective campaigner for the Democrats during the 1960 presidential election, and this experience propelled her into politics. In 1962 and 1964 she was an unsuccessful candidate for the Texas House of Representatives, but she was elected in 1966 to the Texas Senate, the first African American member since 1883 and the first woman ever elected to that legislative body. Jordan remained in the Texas Senate until 1972 when she was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Texas’s 18th district. </p><p>In the House, Jordan advocated legislation to improve the lives of minorities, the poor, and the disenfranchised and sponsored bills that expanded workers’ compensation and strengthened the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to cover Mexican Americans in the Southwest. Jordan was part of another historic milestone when she became the first African American woman to be governor of a state -acting as Governor of Texas on June 10, 1972, as part of her duties as the president pro tempore of the state Senate. For her exemplary service to the nation, Barbara Jordan was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Bill Clinton in 1994.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104094/fill/700x0/image1.jpg?timestamp=1711033936"></div><p> </p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix"><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/07/27/406356/13-black-legends-who-received-the-presidential-medal-of-freedom" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/937426/fit/80x80/presidential_20medal.jpg?timestamp=1711034492" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/07/27/406356/13-black-legends-who-received-the-presidential-medal-of-freedom" target="_blank">13 Black Legends Who Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom </a></h4>
<p>On July 7, President Joe Biden awarded the presidential Medal of Freedom to 17 Americans. In light of this prestigious event, here’s a look at some of the wonderful and deserving Black l... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/07/27/406356/13-black-legends-who-received-the-presidential-medal-of-freedom">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p></div><p><br></p><div><span><h2>Wilma Rudolph</h2><br><p>Born into a family of 22 children and having polio and scarlet fever as a child, Wilma Rudolph persevered to become a world-class athlete. She overcame her disabilities to compete in the 1956 Summer Olympic Games, and in 1960, she became the first American woman to win three gold medals in track and field at a single Olympics and broke at least three world records. Rudolph earned her medals in the 100m, 200m, and 4X100m relay events. Returning home an Olympic champion Rudolph refused to attend her homecoming parade if it was not integrated. She won the Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year award in 1961. </p><p>The following year, Rudolph retired from track and field. She went on to finish her degree at Tennessee State University and began working in education. She continued her involvement in sports, working at several community centers throughout the United States. She was inducted into the US Olympic Hall of Fame in 1983 and started an organization to help amateur track and field stars. In 1990, Rudolph became the first woman to receive the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Silver Anniversary Award. She has said that her proudest legacy is the Wilma Rudolph Foundation, where she helps pair tutors with young children to teach kids about American heroes. In 2004, the United States Postal Service honored the Olympic champion by featuring her likeness on a 23-cent stamp.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104096/fill/700x0/image3.jpg?timestamp=1711034343"></div><p> </p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/02/15/481230/legends-of-the-game-celebrating-the-legacy-of-philadelphia-black-sports-athletes" target="_blank"><img alt="Legends of the Game Celebrating the Legacy of Philadelphia Black Sports Athletes" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1095460/fit/80x80/Philly_20Athletes.jpg?timestamp=1711034358" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/02/15/481230/legends-of-the-game-celebrating-the-legacy-of-philadelphia-black-sports-athletes" target="_blank">Legends of the Game: Celebrating the Legacy of Philadelphia Black Sports Athletes</a></h4>
<p>Philadelphia has remained a city with a rich history in sports and has produced several remarkable Black athletes who through their skills, dedication, and excellence have gone on to beco... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/02/15/481230/legends-of-the-game-celebrating-the-legacy-of-philadelphia-black-sports-athletes">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><div><br></div></span></div></span><span><p>Source</p><p></p><ul><li><p><a href="https://edition.cnn.com/interactive/2021/02/us/little-known-black-history-figures/">CNN</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://ideas.ted.com/5-black-women-american-history-and-heres-why-you-should-know-their-stories/">Ideas.Ted</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/black-women-in-history-you-may-not-know-about-2019-1#wilma-rudolph-ran-off-with-three-gold-medals-at-the-1960-olympics-2">Business Insider</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.essence.com/feature/jane-bolin-first-black-woman-judge-history/">Essence</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.womenshistory.org/">National Women's History Museum</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.britannica.com/">Britannica</a></p></li></ul><div><br><br><br><div><br><br><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1711034537"></div> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. <br></div><p></p><p>She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><span><br><br><br></span></p><p>Read more from Boitumelo Masihleho:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/12/03/473945/black-actors-directors-and-screenwriters-who-made-tv-history" target="_blank"><img alt="Black Actors Directors and Screenwriters Who Made TV History" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1078783/fit/80x80/image5.jpg?timestamp=1711034549" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/12/03/473945/black-actors-directors-and-screenwriters-who-made-tv-history" target="_blank">Black Actors, Directors, and Screenwriters Who Made TV History</a></h4>
<p>Take a look at some of the talented Black actors, directors, and screenwriters who have made TV history throughout the decades. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/12/03/473945/black-actors-directors-and-screenwriters-who-made-tv-history">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/02/27/482112/maggie-lena-walkers-st-luke-penny-savings-bank" target="_blank"><img alt="Maggie Lena Walkers St Luke Penny Savings Bank " src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1097819/fit/80x80/image1.png?timestamp=1711034555" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/02/27/482112/maggie-lena-walkers-st-luke-penny-savings-bank" target="_blank">Maggie Lena Walker's St. Luke Penny Savings Bank </a></h4>
<p>Maggie Lena Walker was an African American entrepreneur and civic leader who broke traditional gender and discriminatory laws by becoming the first Black woman to establish and become pre... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/02/27/482112/maggie-lena-walkers-st-luke-penny-savings-bank">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/02/24/481936/the-untold-story-of-black-cowboys-and-cowgirls-in-the-american-west" target="_blank"><img alt="The Untold Story of Black Cowboys and Cowgirls in the American West" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1097549/fit/80x80/image4.png?timestamp=1711034563" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/02/24/481936/the-untold-story-of-black-cowboys-and-cowgirls-in-the-american-west" target="_blank">The Untold Story of Black Cowboys and Cowgirls in the American West</a></h4>
<p>Around 25% of the cowboys responsible for the movement in the American West were African American. After the Civil War, as many as one-third of all cowboys were Black. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/02/24/481936/the-untold-story-of-black-cowboys-and-cowgirls-in-the-american-west">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p></div><div><br></div><p><br></p><div><br></div></span></div></span></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>
urn:uuid:95e66d69-a91b-4974-94c6-13b93d4d49ff
2024-03-20T14:03:16-04:00
2024-03-20T14:03:20-04:00
CWF at the Tax Preparation Transparency Bill Press Conference by Councilwoman Rue Landau
2024-03-20 14:00:00 -0400
Fun Times Magazine
<br><a href="http://cwfphilly.org" target="_blank">Campaign for Working Families</a><span> recently participated in a press conference at the Philadelphia City Council with Councilmember Rue Landau to discuss her Tax Preparation Transparency Bill. We extend our gratitude to Councilmember Rue Landau and other council members, Councilmember Kendra Brooks, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, Councilman Curtis Jones Jr., Councilmember Nicolas O’Rourke, and Councilmember Jeffery Young Jr. for the opportunity to highlight our FREE tax prep services.<br><br><br>Read more from Campaign for Working Families:<br><br></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/01/17/478516/2024-tax-season-begins-10-things-you-should-know" target="_blank"><img alt="2024 TAX SEASON BEGINS 10 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1089169/fit/80x80/Nikia_20Owens__20Ph.D_20President_20and_20CEO_20CFWF_20Inc._20B_20_2009262023_20ktiplauraIMG_0075.JPG?timestamp=1710957538" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/01/17/478516/2024-tax-season-begins-10-things-you-should-know" target="_blank">2024 TAX SEASON BEGINS: 10 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW</a></h4>
<p>As we approach the 2024 tax season, here are the top ten crucial points that people should be aware of <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/01/17/478516/2024-tax-season-begins-10-things-you-should-know">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/11/24/473319/7-diy-tax-steps" target="_blank"><img alt="7 DIY Tax Steps" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1077527/fit/80x80/closeup-economist-using-calculator-while-going-through-bills-taxes-office.jpg?timestamp=1710957549" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/11/24/473319/7-diy-tax-steps" target="_blank">7 DIY Tax Steps</a></h4>
<p>It is that time of the year, and a few people may be considering doing their own taxes. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/11/24/473319/7-diy-tax-steps">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/03/06/483847/listen-up-free-tax-help-for-high-school-and-college-students" target="_blank"><img alt="LISTEN UP FREE TAX HELP FOR HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE STUDENTS" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1101189/fit/80x80/dr_20owens_20student_20tax_20help.jpg?timestamp=1710957580" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/03/06/483847/listen-up-free-tax-help-for-high-school-and-college-students" target="_blank">LISTEN UP: FREE TAX HELP FOR HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE STUDENTS</a></h4>
<p>Here are five advantages that underscore why young earners should consider filing their taxes. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/03/06/483847/listen-up-free-tax-help-for-high-school-and-college-students">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>
urn:uuid:14616312-f27a-452c-9b8f-4379f86bd6f3
2024-03-20T13:03:40-04:00
2024-03-20T13:23:21-04:00
World Poetry Day: Celebrating the Power of Black Word
2024-03-21 10:00:00 -0400
Gift Joe
<p>Photo by <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-man-reading-a-book-6334065/" target="_blank">cottonbro studio</a></p><p><br></p><span><p>Words are powerful. They can heal or hurt, to build up or tear down, to bring joy or pain. An American author, Yehuda Berg, shared this striking statement about the power of words: “Words are singularly the most powerful force available to humanity. We can choose to use this force constructively with words of encouragement, or destructively use words of despair. Words have energy and power with the ability to help, to heal, to hinder, to hurt, to harm, to humiliate, and to humble.”<br></p><p>Black poets have long used their words to capture the essence of the African American experience, from the days of slavery to the Civil Rights Movement and the present day. Phillis Wheatley was the first American slave, the first person of African descent, and only the third colonial American woman to have her work published. From Langston Hughes to Dr. Maya Angelou and many others, Black poets throughout American history have been at the forefront of literary expression, using their works to educate and inspire generations of readers to reflect, resist, and understand.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103919/fill/700x0/Phillis_wheatley_portrait_2.jpg?timestamp=1710954746">Portrait of Phillis Wheatley (<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Phillis_wheatley_portrait_2.jpg" target="_blank">Public Domain image</a>)</div><p><br></p><p>The Harlem Renaissance through the 1910s and 1930s saw a wave of artists, writers, and musicians in Black communities expressing themselves in new ways. The likes of Langston Hughes, Claude McKay, and Georgia Douglas Johnson played an important role, using their poetry to celebrate the beauty and strength of Black culture. Often hailed as the voice of the Harlem Renaissance, Hughes explored themes of racial identity, equality, and the beauty of Black culture in his poetry. </p><p>Claude McKay used his poem to address issues of racial violence and the fight for equality. His poem, <a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/44694/if-we-must-die" target="_blank">“If We Must Die</a>,” became a rallying cry during the Harlem Renaissance, urging African-Americans to stand up against oppression.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103918/fill/700x0/harlem_20renaissance_20poets.png?timestamp=1710954587">Langston Hughes (<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Langston_Hughes_cph.3a43849.jpg" target="_blank">Public Domain image</a>), Claude McKay (<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Claude_McKay#/media/File:Mackey.jpg" target="_blank">Public Domain image</a>), Georgia Douglas Johnson (<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Georgia_Douglas_Johnson#/media/File:Negro_Poets_and_Their_Poems-0170.jpg" target="_blank">Public Domain image</a>)</div><p><br></p><p>After the Harlem Renaissance came the Civil Rights Movement. Poets such as Gwendolyn Brooks, Amiri Baraka (formerly known as LeRoi Jones), and Nikki Giovanni were prominent voices during this era. They used their poetry as a form of activism, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of the Black community.</p><p>This group of literary icons influenced present-day spoken word artists. Their works have given a voice to the Black community.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103900/fill/700x0/civil_20rights_20poets.png?timestamp=1710949925">Gwendolyn Brooks (©copyright John Mathew Smith 2001 via <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gwendolyn_Brooks.jpg" target="_blank">Wikimedia Commons</a>), Amiri Baraka (photo by David Sasaki, CC by 2.0 via <a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3f/Amiri_Baraka.jpg" target="_blank">Wikimedia Commons</a>), and Nikki Giovanni (<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nikki_Giovanni_Mountain_Home_(cropped).JPG" target="_blank">Public Domain Image</a>). <br><br><br></div></span><span>Read also:<br></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/02/25/426975/the-harlem-renaissance-and-its-impact-on-black-art-and-culture-" target="_blank"><img alt="pbrp" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/983388/fit/80x80/out-chorus-1980.jpg?timestamp=1710954802" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/25/426975/the-harlem-renaissance-and-its-impact-on-black-art-and-culture-" target="_blank">The Harlem Renaissance and its impact on Black art and culture.</a></h4>
<p>During the Harlem Renaissance, Black artists, writers, musicians, and intellectuals converged in Harlem to express their cultural identity and resist racial discrimination. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/25/426975/the-harlem-renaissance-and-its-impact-on-black-art-and-culture-">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><span><br><h2>Black Poetry For Social Change</h2><br><p>Black poetry isn't just about beautiful verses and rhythmic stanzas, it is a powerful instrument for social change. The verses carry the weight of centuries of struggle, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of justice. From the early days to the modern times, Black poets have used their words as a weapon to tackle pressing social and political issues head-on. Their works have catalyzed progress, and justice, challenging oppression, and igniting social change. </p><p>For example, Maya Angelou’s poem “<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46446/still-i-rise" target="_blank">Still I Rise</a>” calls for Black women to embrace their strength and resilience in the face of oppression.</p><p>Langston Hughes’ poem “<a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46548/harlem" target="_blank">Harlem</a>” draws attention to the struggles faced by African Americans. Other poets like Amiri Baraka and Audre Lorde, address topics like racial inequality, feminism, and the struggle for justice. Even poets of today are at the forefront of social movements, using their words to energize crowds and inspire collective action.</p><br><h2>Black Poetry For Inspiration And Empowerment</h2><br><p>Black poetry isn’t all about struggle. It also serves as an inspiration and encouragement to countless individuals, reminding readers of the potential for a brighter future. Their words not only inspire but also challenge negative stereotypes and redefine beauty standards. Works like Amanda Gorman's inaugural poem "<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/20/amanda-gormans-inaugural-poem-the-hill-we-climb-full-text.html" target="_blank">The Hill We Climb</a>" exemplify the ability of poetry to captivate, and uplift. It also highlights the power of Black excellence, inspiring young people to dream big.</p><p>Another example is Sonia Sanchez's "I Know I Am A Black Woman", which depicts the strength and perseverance of Black women in the face of adversity, offering a source of inspiration for those facing their challenges.</p><p><br></p><p>Read also:<br></p><div class="media clearfix"><span class="pull-left"><a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/11/02/470581/10-poetry-books-by-black-poets-to-add-to-your-book-shelf" target="_blank"><img alt="10 Poetry Books by Black Poets to Add to Your Book Shelf" src="https://cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1071438/fit/80x80/image1.jpg?timestamp=1710950213" class="media-object"></a></span><div class="media-body"><h4 class="media-heading"><a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/11/02/470581/10-poetry-books-by-black-poets-to-add-to-your-book-shelf" target="_blank">10 Poetry Books by Black Poets to Add to Your Book Shelf</a></h4><p>From ancient African poems to the work songs of enslaved people and the flood of amazing poetry during the Harlem Renaissance to right now, there’s just so much to read and celebrate from... <span class="pull-right"><a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/11/02/470581/10-poetry-books-by-black-poets-to-add-to-your-book-shelf">Read More »</a></span> </p></div></div><p> </p><br><br><h2>Black Poetry Creating A Sense Of Community</h2><br><p>Black poetry isn't just words on a page; it can also be a means of connecting people from different walks of life. Its role in binding people together and forging a strong sense of community cannot be denied. Through shared stories, cultural references, and the rhythm of language, Black poets create an environment that inspires a feeling of belonging to a vibrant and resilient community.</p><p>Beyond written words, Black poetry often finds its roots in oral traditions and performance. Spoken word events, poetry slams, and other gatherings serve as platforms for poets to share their work in a communal setting. These events can attract diverse audiences, thereby bridging cultural divides through storytelling. This further promotes a sense of community among both poets and audiences. Such events also provide platforms for emerging Black voices and create a space for open expression and dialogue.</p><p>Through rhythmic verses, Black poets celebrate the beauty of Black culture, while also challenging the status quo, uplifting spirits, and reminding readers of their inherent strength and resilience.</p><p>By celebrating the beauty and power of the Black word, we can all be inspired to overcome challenges, embrace our heritage, and reach for our dreams.</p><p><br></p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/04/12/431721/chika-jones-a-nigerian-writer-creating-awareness-of-societal-issues-through-his-poetry" target="_blank"><img alt="Chika Jones A Nigerian writer creating awareness of societal issues through his poetry" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/993730/fit/80x80/image1.jpg?timestamp=1710955151" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/04/12/431721/chika-jones-a-nigerian-writer-creating-awareness-of-societal-issues-through-his-poetry" target="_blank">Chika Jones: A Nigerian writer creating awareness of societal issues through his poetry</a></h4>
<p>In an exclusive interview with FunTimes, Jones opens up about what inspires his creativity and how poetry contributes to storytelling, which is the base of cultures. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/04/12/431721/chika-jones-a-nigerian-writer-creating-awareness-of-societal-issues-through-his-poetry">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/01/29/479706/gumball-machine-poetry-and-a-philly-soul-lindoyess-sweet-treats-for-the-mind" target="_blank"><img alt="Gumball Machine Poetry and a Philly Soul LindoYess Sweet Treats for the Mind" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1091887/fit/80x80/lindoyes.jpg?timestamp=1710955159" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/01/29/479706/gumball-machine-poetry-and-a-philly-soul-lindoyess-sweet-treats-for-the-mind" target="_blank">Gumball Machine Poetry and a Philly Soul: LindoYes's Sweet Treats for the Mind</a></h4>
<p>In the artistic streets of Philadelphia, a different kind of treat is being dished out: tiny bursts of poetry and unexpected solace, courtesy of artist-activist LindoYes and his "Gumball ... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/01/29/479706/gumball-machine-poetry-and-a-philly-soul-lindoyess-sweet-treats-for-the-mind">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/10/19/469450/10-best-black-poets-to-know" target="_blank"><img alt="10 Best Black Poets to Know" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1068726/fit/80x80/black_20poets.jpg?timestamp=1710955181" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/10/19/469450/10-best-black-poets-to-know" target="_blank">10 Best Black Poets to Know</a></h4>
<p>Throughout history, poetry has continued to be a powerful tool in shaping society and influencing public opinion. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/10/19/469450/10-best-black-poets-to-know">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Gift Joe:<br></p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/03/17/484691/reclaiming-country-music-for-black-america-beyonc-s-bold-move-challenges-industry-norms" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103217/fit/80x80/beyonce.jpg?timestamp=1710955226" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/03/17/484691/reclaiming-country-music-for-black-america-beyonc-s-bold-move-challenges-industry-norms" target="_blank">Reclaiming Country Music For Black America: Beyoncé’s Bold Move Challenges Industry Norms</a></h4>
<p>“Texas Hold ‘Em” has already been a massive hit, becoming Beyoncé’s first #1 hit in country music when it debuted at the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This is the first ti... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/03/17/484691/reclaiming-country-music-for-black-america-beyonc-s-bold-move-challenges-industry-norms">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/03/06/483867/black-philly-on-the-move-exploring-hidden-parks-trails-and-outdoor-activities" target="_blank"><img alt="Black Philly on the Move Exploring Hidden Parks Trails and Outdoor Activities" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1101233/fit/80x80/pexels-kevin-liu-17117981.jpg?timestamp=1710955369" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/03/06/483867/black-philly-on-the-move-exploring-hidden-parks-trails-and-outdoor-activities" target="_blank">Black Philly on the Move: Exploring Hidden Parks, Trails, and Outdoor Activities</a></h4>
<p>Attracting millions of tourists every year, Philly is an outdoor paradise that provides a breath of fresh air amid the urban hustle for solos, couples, families, and friends. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/03/06/483867/black-philly-on-the-move-exploring-hidden-parks-trails-and-outdoor-activities">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/03/08/484052/i-am-woman-hear-me-roar-black-women-leading-the-charge-for-a-more-inclusive-world" target="_blank"><img alt="I Am Woman Hear Me Roar Black Women Leading the Charge for a More Inclusive World" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1101717/fit/80x80/hear_20me_20roar.jpg?timestamp=1710955377" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/03/08/484052/i-am-woman-hear-me-roar-black-women-leading-the-charge-for-a-more-inclusive-world" target="_blank">I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar: Black Women Leading the Charge for a More Inclusive World</a></h4>
<p>In a world striving for diversity, equity, and inclusivity, Black women have been at the frontlines, making sure their voices are heard as they stand up for their rights while leading the... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/03/08/484052/i-am-woman-hear-me-roar-black-women-leading-the-charge-for-a-more-inclusive-world">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><span><br><br><br></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>
urn:uuid:345f86c9-7c54-47f1-a0c2-066fca730f6b
2024-03-18T14:30:33-04:00
2024-03-19T11:25:14-04:00
Humor and Laughter for Healing: The Therapeutic Potential of African Comedy
2024-03-20 10:00:00 -0400
Gift Joe
<span><p><i>“A society that does not laugh is one without an important safety valve, and a society in which people interpret crude humor not as the first step toward friendly relations, but as a mortal offense, is one in which ordinary life has become fraught with danger,” according to philosopher Roger Scruton.</i><br></p><p><i><br></i></p><p>Laughter and humor, though often used interchangeably, have different definitions. While humor is the quality that makes something funny, laughter is the physical reaction to humor.</p><p>They say 'a good laugh is a mighty good thing', but did you know it can improve your health? Humor on the other hand is perhaps one of the important tools for dealing with stressful situations and we learn to use this at a very young age. Remember when you were still a baby and laughed heartily at every silly joke – no worries about life, no hate for the next individual – just pure, unadulterated joy?</p><p>However, as we grow older, the trials and tribulations of life begin to hit, and finding reasons to laugh in such situations can seem challenging.</p><p>Amid the chaos, individuals have found ways to embrace humor and laughter and improve their well-being. One such way is through African comedy, which has emerged as a powerful tool for healing, addressing societal issues, and fostering a sense of community. In African culture, humor has long been a means of navigating the complexities of life. From rib-cracking stand-up comedies to skits that would make you laugh out loud, African comedy isn't just about entertainment, but a powerful food for the soul.</p><p>African comedy is deeply rooted in storytelling traditions. Comedians usually weave relatable life stories, societal issues, and other trending topics into their routines, which often resonates with audiences and leaves them laughing their hearts out.</p><p><br></p><p>Read also:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/03/20/393257/national-storytelling-month-5-black-tiktok-creators-who-are-captivating-audiences-with-intriguing-and-informative-content" target="_blank"><img alt="National Storytelling Month 5 Black TikTok Creators Who are Captivating Audiences with Intriguing and Informative Content" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/908144/fit/80x80/world_20storytelling.png?timestamp=1710785926" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/03/20/393257/national-storytelling-month-5-black-tiktok-creators-who-are-captivating-audiences-with-intriguing-and-informative-content" target="_blank">National Storytelling Month: 5 Black TikTok Creators Who are Captivating Audiences with Intriguing and Informative Content</a></h4>
<p>To fuel the Black storytelling impulse, we are highlighting 5 Black content creators who are combining uniqueness, relevancy, and humor to tell pertinent stories. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/03/20/393257/national-storytelling-month-5-black-tiktok-creators-who-are-captivating-audiences-with-intriguing-and-informative-content">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><br><h2>The Healing Power of Laughter and Humour<br></h2><br><p>It is commonly accepted that laughter produces psychological benefits, such as improving depression, anxiety, and stress. There isn’t much academic literature and research on laughter and its therapeutic use to enhance psychological well-being in the human and social sciences. However, some theories have attempted to explain how valuable laughter can be.</p><p>Norman Cousins was among the first authors who wrote about laughter as a therapeutic intervention based on his personal experiences. was suffering from Ankylosing Spondylitis, a degenerative spinal disease that left him in almost constant pain. He subjected himself to watching a lot of comedy films and laughed a lot. He discovered that as little as 10 minutes of laughter gave him as much as 2 hours of pain-free sleep.</p><p>However, Cousins emphasized that he was neither suggesting one could simply laugh illness away nor that laughter was the only healing emotion.</p><p>“Laughter is an integral part of a much larger totality,” he said. “It’s only one part of the doctor’s kit.”</p><p>John Morreall (<a href="https://philpapers.org/rec/MORTPO-48">1986</a>) theorized that humor and laughter can be a path to mental health as they may provide an individual with some form of relief from the mundane aspects of human existence. </p><p>In addition, Berk et al. (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5706473/#CIT0008">1989</a>) examined the effects of laughter on neuroendocrine hormones that are involved in classical stress responses. The researchers concluded that joyful laughter modifies or reduces some of the neuroendocrine hormone levels associated with stress.</p><p>A recent meta-analysis of 45 laughter-inducing interventions with 2,500 randomized participants found significant positive mental health and physical health effects (<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1744388122000202?via%3Dihub">Stiwi and Rosendahl 2022</a>).</p><br>Read also:<br></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/03/07/428142/make-em-laugh-the-best-black-female-comedians" target="_blank"><img alt="Make Em Laugh The Best Black Female Comedians" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985768/fit/80x80/image1.jpg?timestamp=1710785240" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/03/07/428142/make-em-laugh-the-best-black-female-comedians" target="_blank">Make 'Em Laugh: The Best Black Female Comedians</a></h4>
<p>Whether you’re into political humor, commentary on romance, or sketch comedy, there’s something for everyone on this list of Black female comedians. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/03/07/428142/make-em-laugh-the-best-black-female-comedians">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><span><br><h2>The Power of African Comedy</h2><br></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103589/fill/700x0/basketmouth.png?timestamp=1710786285">Image: Nigerian comedian Basketmouth performing in Antwerp. Source: <a href="http://https://youtu.be/deLhRp5x6VI?si=hMUnDzuNsHqKi5WM" target="_blank">Youtube | Africa Web TV</a><br><br></div><span><br><p>From the bustling streets of Lagos to the comedy clubs of Johannesburg, African comedy is providing the much-needed escape, a space to laugh at everyday struggles, societal quirks, and even political realities. Though Africa has its fair share of challenges, comedy serves as a vibrant and potent force for therapeutic release, providing much-needed relief in times of adversity.</p><p>But what is it about African comedy that makes it so effective as a form of therapy? Many use humor as a coping mechanism for dealing with life's challenges. When we attend comedy shows or listen to a comedian crack a joke, we sometimes see ourselves reflected in the humor. This is because African comedy often draws from cultural traditions and experiences. The comedians are either poking fun at societal norms, addressing the complexities of family life, or lampooning political figures and end up laughing away the stress and tension, forgetting our worries for the moment.</p><p>Whether through stand-up performances, skits, or satirical shows, African comedy has the potential to not only entertain but is a powerful therapeutic tool in its own right.</p><br><br><h2>Prominent Figures Providing Therapeutic African Comedy</h2><br><p>Comedy has since evolved from the cracking of jokes to helping people maintain their sanity. Several African comedians have taken up this role, providing the much-needed avenue for people to laugh away their pain. The rise of social media and streaming platforms has allowed them to reach an even wider audience worldwide.</p><p><b>Trevor Noah:</b> The South African-born comedian is one of the most successful comedians in Africa. He has become a global entertainment icon, often using humor to confront prejudice and institutional racism. His comedy is more than jokes, as he uses his sharp wit to shine a light on global and societal issues, while also proving that laughter can be a powerful tool for healing.</p><p><b>Basketmouth: </b>Stand-up comedian, Bright Okpocha, aka Basketmouth, is a force to be reckoned with in the world of African comedy. His brand of humor offers an insightful and hilarious look at Nigerian life, resonating with audiences across Africa and beyond. So the next time you need a dose of laughter to heal your aching heart, tune into Basketmouth's comedy skits.</p><p><b>Shengesh: </b>This Kenyan all-female comedy group isn't your typical stand-up troupe. The group uses humor as a weapon for social change and female empowerment. Not only are their routines a source of laughter, but they are also a catalyst for important conversations. The comedians are a good example of how humor can be a powerful tool for healing, social change, and empowerment.</p><p><br></p><p>Laughter truly is the best medicine, and these African comedians are proving it.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Read also:</p></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/07/14/441197/the-best-afro-caribbean-comedians" target="_blank"><img alt="The Best Afro-Caribbean Comedians" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1014375/fit/80x80/caribbean_20comedians.jpg?timestamp=1710786436" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/07/14/441197/the-best-afro-caribbean-comedians" target="_blank">The Best Afro-Caribbean Comedians</a></h4>
<p>Welcome, fellow laughter enthusiasts and seekers of comic relief! Prepare yourselves for a riotous journey into the captivating world of Afro-Caribbean comedy. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/07/14/441197/the-best-afro-caribbean-comedians">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/07/06/362016/-master-of-none-netflix-series-analysis" target="_blank"><img alt="Figure 1 - Dev Shah Aziz Ansari from Master of None Source - Google" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/834896/fit/80x80/aziz_20ansari.jpeg?timestamp=1710786436" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/07/06/362016/-master-of-none-netflix-series-analysis" target="_blank">‘Master of None’ - Netflix Series Analysis</a></h4>
<p>This Netflix comedy series was co-created by Parks and Recreation veterans Aziz Ansari and Alan Yang and centers on an actor's journey through career, family, love, friendship, and the fi... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/07/06/362016/-master-of-none-netflix-series-analysis">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/03/17/484691/reclaiming-country-music-for-black-america-beyonc-s-bold-move-challenges-industry-norms" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103217/fit/80x80/beyonce.jpg?timestamp=1710786468" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/03/17/484691/reclaiming-country-music-for-black-america-beyonc-s-bold-move-challenges-industry-norms" target="_blank">Reclaiming Country Music For Black America: Beyoncé’s Bold Move Challenges Industry Norms</a></h4>
<p>“Texas Hold ‘Em” has already been a massive hit, becoming Beyoncé’s first #1 hit in country music when it debuted at the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This is the first ti... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/03/17/484691/reclaiming-country-music-for-black-america-beyonc-s-bold-move-challenges-industry-norms">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Gift Joe:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2024/01/18/478556/journey-to-the-motherland-countries-in-africa-every-african-american-should-visit-in-2024" target="_blank"><img alt="Journey to the Motherland Countries In Africa Every African American Should Visit in 2024" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1089325/fit/80x80/GHANA_TAKORADI_MARKET_CIRCLE_-_WOMAN_SELLING_FRUITS.jpg?timestamp=1710786549" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2024/01/18/478556/journey-to-the-motherland-countries-in-africa-every-african-american-should-visit-in-2024" target="_blank">Journey to the Motherland: Countries In Africa Every African American Should Visit in 2024</a></h4>
<p>Every African American should visit the Motherland once in their lifetime to experience the perfect blend of ancient and modern, wild and urban, and East and West. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2024/01/18/478556/journey-to-the-motherland-countries-in-africa-every-african-american-should-visit-in-2024">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/11/24/473115/oware-the-ancient-african-board-game-where-history-meets-skill" target="_blank"><img alt="Oware The Ancient African Board Game Where History Meets Skill" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1077000/fit/80x80/BAO__MANCALA__WITH_FRIENDS.jpeg?timestamp=1710786589" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/11/24/473115/oware-the-ancient-african-board-game-where-history-meets-skill" target="_blank">Oware: The Ancient African Board Game Where History Meets Skill</a></h4>
<p>It is one of the oldest and most popular traditional board games in Africa with a rich history, and it continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages across the continent. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/11/24/473115/oware-the-ancient-african-board-game-where-history-meets-skill">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/12/19/475952/from-kingston-to-the-world-exploring-jamaican-dancehall-culture" target="_blank"><img alt="From Kingston To The World Exploring Jamaican Dancehall Culture" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1083508/fit/80x80/young-woman-dances-street.jpg?timestamp=1710786623" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/12/19/475952/from-kingston-to-the-world-exploring-jamaican-dancehall-culture" target="_blank">From Kingston To The World: Exploring Jamaican Dancehall Culture</a></h4>
<p> People from all over the world come to this island to experience real dancehall because it is different from their regular lifestyle. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/12/19/475952/from-kingston-to-the-world-exploring-jamaican-dancehall-culture">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>
urn:uuid:d6736c87-902b-4329-a8e4-0d87b7563a34
2024-03-19T11:24:26-04:00
2024-03-21T09:44:57-04:00
Sink yourself into March
2024-03-19 12:00:00 -0400
FunTimes Staff
<span><p>Makeshift planter in a recycled porcelain pedestal sink outside of row home in Center City Philadelphia. The faucets make watering easy.<br>Photo by Randy Giancaterino</p><p><b><i>FunTimes Magazine</i> ‘Culture + Entertainment,” Week of March 18, 2024</b></p><p> </p><p> "Spring is nature's way of saying 'Let's Party!'" </p><p> <i> —The late actor-comic. Robin Williams</i></p></span><span><p>Take a nice deep breath. Ok, exhale!… At last, spring is here. At least, officially. The signs of the arrival of the season of new beginnings are springing up everywhere. Just take a peek at the lead photo in this column. </p><p>FunTimers, read on for low-cost, or free events, focusing on art and African-American culture. And don’t forget: When event-going, please take precautions, especially when in groups and indoors, with the current COVID-19 variants and other infectious health threats on the rise. Check with the event organizers about their safety protocols, and also any changes due to inclement weather. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103713/fill/700x0/image6.png?timestamp=1710858173">Author Hanif Abdurraqib & host Airea Dee Matthews<br><br></div><h2>The word on LeBron at the book signing</h2><p><br></p><p></p><p><b>Wednesday, March 27, 2024.</b> Essayist-cultural critic Hanif Abdurraqib’s latest book, “There’s Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension,” Is making a fast breakdown court to Philadelphia. In <i>There’s Always This Year</i>, supreme personal storyteller Abdurraqib reflects on basketball, role models, success, expectations, and everything LeBron James -- his favorite hoopster while growing up in Ohio in the 1990s. Like LeBron’s play, his prose is poetry in motion. And when the recipient of the McArthur Genius Award writes, people read. And when he speaks at the Parkway Central Library for a book reading signing, people will listen. Whether he shoots the breeze about sports. Black music, art, or the human condition, he commands attention. Leading the discussion will be Airea D. Matthews, the 2022–23 Philadelphia Poet Laureate and manager of the poetry program at Bryn Mawr College. Abdurraqib’s books will be available to buy. A book signing will follow the presentation. Mask-wearing is required. $40 with book purchase. 7:30 p.m. EST. Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine St. 215-567-4341 or <a href="http://www.freelibrary.org">www.freelibrary.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103714/fill/700x0/image5.png?timestamp=1710858247"></div><p> </p><h2>Johnson House-FunTimes’ exhibit paints a family portrait…<br></h2><br></span><span><p><b>Saturday, March 23, 2024. </b>To celebrate Women’s History Month,<i> FunTimes Magazine</i> and Johnson House Historic Site will present<b> Meet The Tiberino Family: A Continuing Legacy of Art</b>. The exhibit will feature a dedicated family of artists including one of Philadelphia’s most prominent female artists: the family matriarch, the late Ellen Powell Tiberino (1937 to 1992). She was known for her pastels, oils, pencil drawings, and sculptures. The Philadelphia African-American artist’s realistic and dramatic works reflect the history of the Black experience, particularly women, whom she often represented in haunting colors. Her work includes large-scale paintings, three-dimensional murals, and sculptures. In 1977, she was the first artist to have a one-person exhibition at the city’s Afro-American Historical and Cultural Museum. Creatively, she drew from her personal experiences and observations. As a cancer patient for 18 years, Tiberino faced many medical challenges but continued to express herself through her art. She worked from her hospital bed up until her death at age 55; although her life was cut short, she left a prolific collection of art. Her husband Joseph also was an artist who worked on paintings with his wife. Their daughter, Ellen Tiberino, carried on her legacy and developed her successful career. She is a mosaic artist from West Philadelphia and a part of a celebrated family called “The Wyeths of Philadelphia.” Enjoy the exhibit, and a discussion, and get an opportunity to buy the art; originals and prints that are on exhibit will be available. Johnson House, now a National Historic Landmark, was a way station for enslaved individuals escaping to freedom through the Underground Railroad. Johnson House Historic Site, 6306 Germantown Ave. Free, but pre-register, 2 p.m. EST to 4 p.m. EST. <a href="mailto:info@johnsonhouse.org">info@johnsonhouse.org</a> or 215-438-1768 or <a href="http://johnsonhouse.org/">johnsonhouse.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103715/fill/700x0/image8.png?timestamp=1710858370"></div><p> </p><h2> The exhibit spotlights pioneering printmaker Dox Thrash</h2><p> </p><p><b>Friday, March 22, 2024.</b> African American Museum in Philadelphia will launch an exhibit by heralded trailblazing artist-printmaker, Dox Thrash, at a reception. The exhibit, “Imprint: Dox Thrash, Black Life, and American Culture,” will feature more than 40 pieces. Get a sneak preview of the show, and discuss its importance with the museum’s leadership team. More than half of the exhibit’s pieces will showcase Thrash’s chosen medium -- his innovative use of carborundum mezzotint -- a printmaking method developed in America in the 1930s. Thrash helped to refine this technique in which light passage is added to a dark field.</p><p>Said the museum’s Dejay Duckett, Vice President of Curatorial Services: “Philadelphia was his [artist Thrash] chosen home, and while his innovative use of printmaking as a medium has been celebrated, his art is a true snapshot of Black America.”</p><p></p><p>After serving in World War I, Thrash attended the Art Institute of Chicago as a military veteran; later, his artistic path led to Philadelphia. He gained notoriety locally at the Fine Print Workshop of Philadelphia – the local site housing a federal art-relief program. In Philadelphia, he honed his signature printmaking techniques. 6 p.m. EST to 8 p.m. EST, free, register in advance. The African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch St. 215- 574-0380 or <a href="http://aampmuseum.org/">aampmuseum.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103716/fill/700x0/image7.jpg?timestamp=1710858430"></div><p> </p><p>Jacob Lawrence’s Revolt on the Amistad, 1989, color serigraph</p><h2>A virtual look at an exhibit of artists’ Nigerian journey</h2><p><b><br></b>Wednesday, March 20, 2024. The virtual workshop,<b> The Art at Noon’s Black Orpheus: Jacob Lawrence & The Mbari</b>, hosted by the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, has an interesting backstory:</p><p></p><p>It started in 1964 when African-American artist Jacob Lawrence and his wife, Gwendolyn Knight, made a research pilgrimage to Nigeria. They met modernist artists from an organization and salon, the Mbari Club, through their involvement with the American Society of African Culture. Mbari Club members’ art was published in their journal Black Orpheus, “presenting hybrid art forms based in the artist’s cultural practices, while being connected to Western contemporary styles.” The exhibit’s curator is author-scholar Kimberli Gant, curator of Modern & Contemporary Art at the Brooklyn Museum of Art. The accomplished Gant will lead you through the details of the exhibit. Free, but pre-registration is required; noon to 1 p.m. EST. Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, 118-128 N. Broad St. E-mail:<a href="mailto: lwaselchuk@pafa.org" target="_blank"> lwaselchuk@pafa.org</a>, 215-972-7600 or <a href="https://www.pafa.org/events/black-orpheus-jacob-lawrence-mbari-club-032024" target="_blank">https://www.pafa.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103717/fill/700x0/image2.png?timestamp=1710858758"></div><p> </p><div><span><h2>Try your hand at public art</h2><br><p><b>Wednesday, March 27, 2024.</b> To all emerging and established artists who are interested in participating in commissioned public art projects: The City of Philadelphia’s Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy (OACCE) will host a virtual public-art workshop,<b> “Public Art, How to Start: Turning Passion into Profession.”</b> It will feature a conversation with OACCE’s Public Art Director Marguerite Anglin and Alvin Pettit, the artist selected to design Philadelphia’s permanent Harriet Tubman statue to be installed outside of City Hall. Pettit will share tips on how he turned his passion for public art into a lifelong career. After a juried decision that included input from the general public, Pettit’s renderings and ideas were chosen, and he was commissioned to create a permanent public sculpture representing the legacy of social activist Tubman; she bravely helped free 300 enslaved individuals through a passage through the Underground Railroad in Philadelphia, and other cities, before the Civil War in the 1800s. Pettit is the director of the Mary McLeod Bethune Life Center in Jersey City. Zoom webinar. Free, but pre-register. 5:30 p.m. EST to 7 p.m. EST. Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy (OACCE). 215-686- 8446 or <a href="https://creativephl.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=ed6a3fd17b8ad5a27a986d6b4&id=2acaaa9254&e=e46de8b264">creativephl.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103718/fill/700x0/image1.jpg?timestamp=1710858873"></div><p><br></p><h2> Get wordy & get money!</h2></span><span><br><p><b>Through Thursday, March 28, 2024. </b>Get real /no big deal/Ya know the spiel/Time to heal…See, poetry flows naturally like a river of words through our veins. Now, it’s your turn: All poets, musicians, creatives, and all-around wordsmiths, the deadline is fast approaching for your chance to enter the<b> FunTimes Celebrate Her Spoken Words Contest</b>. It’s a cool opportunity to receive money, and recognition and celebrate an inspirational Black woman of your choice in the community. Prizes will be awarded for first place ($250), second place ($150), and third place ($100). Just present your creative spoken-word masterpiece in any language (non-English pieces should include subtitles) in a quality video of 80 seconds or less. Select a suitable background that complements the mood and theme of your expressive spoken-word performance. Feel free to incorporate music or visuals in your presentation. Free to enter. Submit your prose in a video, with your full name and e-mail address, by Thursday, March 28, 2024, to: <a href="mailto:funtimescontest@gmail.com">funtimescontest@gmail.com</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FuntimesMagazine/" target="_blank">Facebook (FunTimes Magazine)</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/funtimesmagazine/" target="_blank">Instagram (funtimesmagazine)</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/FunTimesMag?t=OQok6Y3OH236gniGWA0Qcg&s=08" target="_blank">X (FunTimesMag)</a>, or <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/funtimes-magazine" target="_blank">Linkedin (FunTimes Magazine)</a>. If you have the prose, we’ll give you the platform. </p></span><span><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1103725/fill/700x0/refocus_20exhibit.png?timestamp=1710861183">From left to right: Chelsey Luster, “Luster,” oil, acrylic, faux fur, glitter, and marker on panel; Shontel Horne, “Habits,” photography. Photo courtesy of the Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy.<br><br></div><h2>A re(FOCUS) on women & gender-nonconforming artists</h2><br><p><b>Through Friday, April 12, 2024. </b>Art in City Hall, a program of the City of Philadelphia’s Office of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy (OACCE), is presenting<b><i> (re)FOCUS at City Hall </i></b>-- a juried exhibition with the Women’s Caucus for Art (WCA). The exhibit features the works of 46 local women and gender-nonconforming artists. It will focus on the contemporary social issues of women’s empowerment, gender identity, and equality. It’s part of <i>(re)FOCUS 2024,</i> a citywide collaboration of more than 60 visual arts organizations celebrating 50 years of feminism in the arts.<i> (re)FOCUS at City Hall </i>was juried by Patti Jordan and Sarah Bloom, members of the Women’s Caucus for Art. Bloom is a Philadelphia photographer and Jordan is a mixed-media artist in New Jersey. Free, 8 a.m. EST to 6 p.m. EST. weekdays. Philadelphia City Hall, 2nd, 3rd & 4th-floor hallways (sign in at the northeast corner visitor’s entrance). 215-686-8446 or <a href="http://creativephl.org" target="_blank">creativephl.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><br></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1104078/fill/700x0/image.png?timestamp=1711028626">Cheyney University President , Dr. Aaron Walton, at the 2019 Philadelphia UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball<br><br></div><span><h2>UNCF Weekend invests in young minds</h2><p><b><br></b></p><p><b>Saturday, March 23 & Sunday March 24, 2024. </b>Nearly 300 college students have benefitted from the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), with more in the pipeline. The program’s signature event, the 12th Annual UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball, is one of the premier formal social occasions on the Philadelphia spring calendar. UNCF will present community awards to local UNCF supporters Ric Harris, President and General Manager of NBC10, Telemundo and NBC Sports Philadelphia; David Gould, Chief Diversity and Impact Officer, Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment, and The Philadelphia Orchestra-Kimmel Cultural Campus. The weekend concludes with UNCF Sunday hosted by Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. It will be a day of praise. The Rev. Dr. Donald D. Moore, the church’s Senior Pastor, will welcome the UNCF community. Mt. Carmel Baptist Church shares UNCF’s mission of higher education. At a service this Palm Sunday, celebrate the efforts of promising students. Showcased will be the work of the more than 100 HBCUs nationwide, including 37 Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the UNCF network. Wear your favorite school apparel or fraternity/sorority colors. UNCF Sunday: Free, 10 a.m. EST, Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 5732 Race St., Mayor’s Masked Ball: $350; Reception: 5:30 p.m. EST, program: 7 p.m. EST., Marriott Downtown Philadelphia, 1200 Filbert St, E-mail: <a href="mailto:cstarlinglove@uncf.org">cstarlinglove@uncf.org</a>, 215-925-9044 or <a href="http://uncf.org" target="_blank">uncf.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div><br></div></span></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>